EDM: Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Tabled by Dr Danny Chambers (Liberal Democrat) 41 signatures

The motion

That this House notes with grave concern the recent declaration of a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in the Democratic Republic of Congo following 904 suspected cases and 119 suspected deaths from Ebola for which there is currently no vaccine or effective treatment; further notes the severe impact on affected communities and the heightened risk posed by the international spread of infectious diseases; recognises that global health security is of utmost importance, and that infectious diseases do not respect national borders; expresses concern at the withdrawal of the United States from the WHO and the concurrent reduction in UK overseas aid funding; believes that sustained international cooperation and investment are essential in addressing such public health crises at their source; and calls on the Government to reconsider reductions in the aid budget and to ensure that the UK remains adequately prepared to respond to global health threats that may pose a risk to national public health.

Signatories (41)