Jeremy Miles MS, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care
The ongoing situation in Gaza is intolerable for the millions of Palestinians living there. I repeat the calls made by the First Minister for an immediate ceasefire, recognising the devastating effects the war is having on the population, including children in need of specialist healthcare.
The Prime Minister announced in July that the UK will support the medical evacuation of Gazan children in desperate need of treatment. Wales will play its part and I am pleased to confirm the Welsh Government will participate in the UK Gaza Medical Evacuation Scheme.
The Welsh Government is working closely with the other governments in the UK to determine how the scheme will operate, which is inevitably a sensitive and complex process, involving the NHS and local authorities. We are committed to doing our utmost to support the children who need medical treatment and their families, where we have the capacity and are able to meet their needs. Only a small number of children are likely to come to Wales for treatment. I will keep Senedd Members updated about progress as details are confirmed.
Like other parts of the UK, we continue to push for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and hope lasting peace can be secured.
This statement is being issued during recess to keep Members informed. Should Members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.