Russia: Tactical Nuclear Weapon Deployment

Debate between Baroness Smith of Newnham and Lord Singh of Wimbledon

Tuesday 11th October 2022 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Smith of Newnham (LD)]

My Lords—

[Lord Singh of Wimbledon (CB)]

My Lords, NATO was created to contain the threat of the former Soviet Union—an entity that no longer exists. It is individual countries, not NATO, that have been aiding and helping the brave people of Ukraine. Would the Minister agree that if we were to say that we will disband NATO it might just give Putin the escape route he so desperately requires? If that does not work, it will at least show the Russian people what sort of person Putin is.

[Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park (Con)]

My Lords, it is precisely the existence of NATO that gives us some hope that we can check President Putin’s power. NATO has been very clear, as we as an active member of it have been, that we will continue to respond to Russia’s threat and hostile actions in a united and responsible way, including by significantly strengthening deterrence and defence for all allies. NATO absolutely does not seek confrontation with Russia, but it is nevertheless speaking with one very clear voice.