Written question asked by Caroline Lucas (Green Party) on Thursday, 2 May 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 7 May 2024. It was answered by Andrew Mitchell (Conservative) on Monday, 13 May 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Disease Control: Air Pollution

Question: To ask the Deputy Foreign Secretary, if he will take steps to ensure measurable commitments to improve indoor air quality are included in the forthcoming Pandemic Accord.

Answer: The UK recognises that improving indoor air quality is an important public health issue. However, as the Pandemic Accord aims to establish a high-level framework for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, we have instead pursued action on this issue in other multilateral settings. For example, at last year's UN General Assembly, the UK worked with international partners to advocate for action on indoor air quality during the High-Level Meeting on Universal Health Care. The UK supported reference being made to the health impacts of indoor air pollution in the HLM's political declaration, which was subsequently adopted on 5 October 2023.

Secondary information