Thank you for contacting me about the humanitarian situation in Yemen.
The Yemeni people are facing the most severe humanitarian crisis in the world – with eighty per cent of the population reliant on some form of support, including an estimated twelve million children. Around 16,500 people are currently living in famine conditions, which is set to triple by June 2021. The pandemic will only exacerbate this crisis, particularly as millions remain without even the most basic access to medical care. Now, more than ever, we must do all we can to support the people of Yemen.
The UK has provided over £1 billion of aid to support to meet the basic needs of millions of Yemenis since the conflict began, and I am assured that such generosity will continue. Indeed, the UK has committed to spend at least £87 million on humanitarian aid to Yemen in 2021/22. To be clear, this commitment is a floor not a ceiling. There is no reason why it cannot rise as and when circumstances on the ground develop – indeed, the UK has exceeded its announced annual commitment in previous years in this way.
I am assured that Ministers and officials are continuing to engage with the UN and other donors, including the US, to ensure that life-saving humanitarian aid is not disrupted by political developments and reaches the millions of Yemenis in need.
Ultimately, only a political settlement can bring long-term stability to Yemen and tackle the worsening humanitarian crisis and the UK will continue to urge Yemeni leaders to agree to the UN Special Envoy’s peace plan.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Craig Whittaker MP
March 2021