Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether he has had recent discussions with his international counterparts on the potential merits of (a) suspending, (b) restructuring and (c) cancelling some of Pakistan’s external debt in the context of the recent flooding in that country.

The Government expresses deep concern and condolences for the severe humanitarian and economic impact of flooding in Pakistan. The UK recently announced an uplift in Pakistan flood relief funding, taking the total amount pledged to £16.5m. In addition, at COP26, the UK announced more than £55m of support to help Pakistan tackle climate change.

The Government regularly engages on debt issues with our international partners in a number of fora. The UK acts in concert with its partners in the Paris Club on international debt issues and we stand ready to consider any request through the Paris Club or Common Framework process.