§ Ann KeenTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what humanitarian efforts are being made to ensure that non-governmental organisations are able to support small Palestinian Christian communities in gaining access to food, water and medical treatment. [153308]
Mr. Gareth ThomasDFID, and the wider international community, have supported a wide range of initiatives to help meet the urgent needs of Palestinians, as economic and social conditions have seriously deteriorated. Helping maintain access to water, health, and relief services is a vital aspect of this. We and our partners target our support to Palestinians1316W most in need, rather than specific communities. We work closely with a number of partners including the Palestinian Authority and local and international NGOs. Our support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency also plays a significant role in delivering basic services to refugees in many of the most disadvantaged communities.