Oral Answers to Questions

David Simmonds Excerpts

Monday 23rd March 2020 Commons Chamber

The Secretary of State was asked—

[David Simmonds (Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner) (Con)]

1. What plans she has to mark the conclusion of the initial five-year term of the vulnerable persons relocation scheme.

[The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Priti Patel)]

All right hon. and hon. Members will also associate themselves with your remarks, Mr Speaker.

It is vital that we help those in greatest need, including those requiring medical treatment and support, which is why we are working closely with local authority and civil society organisations.

[David Simmonds]

Will my right hon. Friend consider making budgets available from the official development assistance funds to support refugees with their ambition to learn the English language after their resettlement to the UK?

[Priti Patel]

My hon. Friend asks an important question and makes a very important point about the vulnerable persons relocation scheme He will know, as will all Members, that our ODA budget is used exactly for that purpose, and the Government have a proud and considerable record of achievement when it comes to the vulnerable persons resettlement scheme.