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Written question asked by Brendan O'Hara (Scottish National Party) on Thursday, 28 November 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 3 December 2024 (named day). It was answered by Luke Pollard (Labour) on Tuesday, 3 December 2024 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.


Armed Conflict: Civilians

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to respond to the recommendations of the report entitled Strengthening UK Military Investigations into Civilian Harm, published by the Ceasefire Centre for Civilian Rights on 26 November 2024.

Answer

I thank the hon. Member for raising this report with the Department.

Where the UK undertakes military action, it is conducted in full accordance with UK and international law.

Military action is meticulously planned in accordance with the recognised IHL principles of proportionality, military necessity, distinction and humanity, as well as in line with relevant policies such as the Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict; Joint Service Publication 985 – Human Security in Defence. Great care is taken to minimise the risk of harm to civilians and civilian infrastructure, and this sits at the core of our approach.

Working level discussions are ongoing between Ministry of Defence officials, our allies, and civil society organisations to share and promote best practice on civilian harm mitigation.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
16763
Session
2024-26
Related items
Armed Conflict: Civilians
Tuesday, 9 December 2025
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Accountability Armed conflict Civilians Protection
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk