stephen welcomes government update on medical visa scheme for children

Stephen has received a response from Hamish Falconer, Minister for the Middle East, following his letter on behalf of East Ham constituents about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the urgent need for medical evacuations.

The Minister confirmed that the situation in Gaza remains catastrophic, with hospitals damaged or destroyed and essential medicines running out. He stated: “We urge Israel to allow access to essential healthcare, including permitting the sick and wounded to temporarily leave Gaza for treatment.”

On 25 July, the Prime Minister announced that the UK is moving forward with plans to evacuate children from Gaza who require urgent medical care, including bringing them to the UK for specialist treatment where appropriate. The Government is working at pace to implement these plans.

The Minister also highlighted that the UK has supported an initiative by Project Pure Hope to bring several children from Gaza to the UK for privately funded specialist care. Applications for private medical treatment under the Immigration Rules will be considered promptly and compassionately in exceptional or compelling circumstances.

Stephen said: “I welcome the Government’s commitment to evacuating children in urgent need of care and to continuing efforts for peace. My constituents are deeply concerned about the suffering in Gaza, and I will keep pressing for decisive action to protect civilians and deliver humanitarian aid.”

To read the Minister’s reply in full, click here.