Written questions by Thomas.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent diplomatic discussions she has had with European counterparts about the potential merits of agreeing a combined minerals strategy.

Awaiting answer.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent diplomatic discussions she has had with allies about decreasing dependence on China for minerals.

Awaiting answer.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with counterparts around the world about ending modern slavery.

Awaiting answer.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent diplomatic discussions she has had with European counterparts about the potential merits of agreeing a combined minerals strategy.

It has not proved possible to respond to the hon. Member in the time available before Prorogation.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent diplomatic discussions she has had with allies about decreasing dependence on China for minerals.

It has not proved possible to respond to the hon. Member in the time available before Prorogation.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with her Polish counterpart on their membership of the Joint Expeditionary Force.

Poland is a vital UK ally and a NATO member, playing a central role in the defence of NATO's eastern flank and security in the Baltic region. Poland is also a crucial partner in supporting Ukraine, including through military, humanitarian and logistical assistance. Poland is not currently seeking membership of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), but has contributed to JEF exercises through the JEF Plus mechanism.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if she will have discussions with Cocos Island National Park Rangers on the repurposing of discarded fishing equipment into anti-drone nets for Ukraine.

This would not be a matter for the UK Government, but I thank the Hon Member for his commitment to the Ukrainian cause, and he may wish to consider writing to the Costa Rican and Ukrainian ambassadors so they can jointly consider his suggestion.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for his Department of the report by Resilience & Reconstruction entitled Disinformation, UK Democracy, and Attitudes toward Ukraine & Russia in the UK, published on 14 January 2026.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 21 January in response to Question 105450.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent diplomatic steps she has taken to help return Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 20 October 2025 in response to Question 80930, and I would add that - on 3 December - the UK co-sponsored a UN General Assembly resolution for the 'Return of Ukrainian Children'.I also refer the Hon Member to the answers provided by the Foreign Secretary during departmental questions on 2 December.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions she had with her French counterpart on nuclear support to NATO.

The Foreign Secretary regularly speaks to her French counterpart, including on matters relating to NATO defence. The NATO Strategic Concept states that the independent strategic nuclear forces of the United Kingdom and France have a deterrent role of their own and contribute significantly to the overall security of the Alliance. The UK and French separate centres of decision-making contribute to deterrence by complicating the calculations of potential adversaries.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment her Department has made of the potential role of business events in improving and building international partnerships.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) recognises that well‑designed business events play an important role in strengthening international partnerships. Through initiatives such as the Lancaster House Business Engagement Series, the Department brings senior diplomats together with UK business leaders to share geopolitical insight and deepen understanding of global markets. These events help businesses make informed decisions about international opportunities, supporting stronger commercial links overseas. The FCDO is also expanding its regional outreach through Heads of Mission Roadshows, which allow ambassadors and high commissioners to engage directly with companies across the UK and discuss geopolitical developments relevant to their sectors. In addition, the Department is establishing a Diplomatic Advisory Hub within the British Chambers of Commerce to provide tailored guidance on international risks and partnerships. Early feedback from businesses has been positive, and these initiatives are helping ensure that UK companies are better equipped to build and sustain successful international relationships.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with (a) her Nigerian counterpart and (b) governors of Nigerian states on malnutrition in that country.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 2 October to Question 73649.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of its policies in tackling malnutrition in Nigeria.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 2 October to Question 73649.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of reductions in the international aid budget on malnutrition in Nigeria.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 2 October to Question 73649.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with NGOs on tackling malnutrition in Nigeria.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 2 October to Question 73649.