Saudi Arabia: RAF Support

Debate between Baroness Antrobus and Lord Craig of Radley

Monday 26th October 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Antrobus (Lab)]

As the noble Lord knows, we have been discussing this with and updating noble Lords and those in the other place. The Prime Minister delivered a Statement in the other place on the first day back after the recess. He set out the strategic case for why the UK is supporting Saudi Arabia and answered dozens of questions on the matter. As the noble Lord will also know, the Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal repeated that Statement in this Chamber and took questions from noble Lords. Following adjustment to that support last week, the Defence Secretary laid a Written Ministerial Statement. The Minister for Veterans and People addressed it in the other place on Thursday, and I am delighted to continue to answer noble Lords’ questions today.

[Lord Craig of Radley (CB)]

My Lords, have the Government arrived at arrangements over rules of engagement with the Saudis? I am not asking what they are but I want assurance that they have been agreed. Will the Saudis be paying financially towards the contribution that we are making?

[Baroness Antrobus (Lab)]

The noble and gallant Lord asks important questions. On compliance with the law and specific issues about rules of engagement, I cannot comment, but we expect all partners receiving UK assistance to comply fully with their obligations under international law, including the protection of civilians, and we will continue to monitor and assess Saudi Arabia as part of our ongoing engagement. On cost, I cannot give the noble and gallant Lord details at the moment, although I can write to him afterwards. However, there is of course the interest that this country has in how activities around the Middle East and destabilisation in the region impact costs and other price of living issues here in the UK as well.