Here are the climate-related sections of speeches by MPs during the Commons debate UK Small Island Developing States Strategy.
Chris Elmore (Labour)
Small island developing states are essential UK partners on global issues such as climate change, economic growth, combating crime and energy security. SIDS represent 20% of the UN family, steward vast ocean territories through their exclusive economic zones, and are hotspots for biodiversity globally. The UK shares deep connections with many SIDS, particularly through the Commonwealth, and we recognise their special circumstances, including their vulnerability to extreme weather events and global economic shocks.
Reform —The UK will drive reform in the international finance system to increase SIDS’ access to climate finance, tackle unsustainable debt and mobilise private sector resources. We will amplify SIDS’ voices to ensure that international systems better take account of SIDS’ special circumstances and capacities.
In delivering the strategy, we will support the UK’s wider international objectives, support multilateralism and also benefit from the ideas and energies that SIDS themselves bring to international debates on development, sustainable growth, biodiversity, climate change and a reformed international system. Ultimately, our strategy is about empowering people and countries to direct their own future and reduce their reliance on aid. A responsive, modern partnership with SIDS includes lending our voice to advocate for issues important to SIDS internationally. At the same time, we will ensure that our partnership with SIDS and other actors will further UK values and interests, stand up for freedom around the world and support SIDS to plan for their own sustained progress and resilience.
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