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<p>We are aware of water shortages in Hassekeh. These have been caused by the damage
to the Alouk/Al Haouk water station, which compounds an existing issue as water supplies
in Hassekeh have been under enormous strain since before the crisis. This water station
is critical and serves approximately 400,000 people in Hassekeh and camps in the area.
The UN is currently assessing the damage and needs in the water station. We are actively
engaging with partners on the ground to assess any impact on their ability to assist
those in need. Whilst partners had prepared contingency planning and prepositioned
supplies in advance of the recent crisis, we understand that some of our partners
have now had to suspend operations to protect their staff. In spite of this, we are
engaging with our partners to ensure humanitarian access is continuing to be delivered
to those in need. The Secretary of State has been in contact with Sir Mark Lowcock,
the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, to identify gaps in the humanitarian response.</p><p>
</p><p>Last financial year we provided over £40 million in humanitarian assistance
in Northeast Syria, and intend to continue our support at that level this financial
year. This support is focussed on reaching those in most acute need, providing vital
food, water, shelter and healthcare.</p>
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