1 Lord Cromwell debates involving the Ministry of Defence

Wed 25th Feb 2015

Ukraine

Lord Cromwell Excerpts
Wednesday 25th February 2015

(9 years, 9 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Astor of Hever Portrait Lord Astor of Hever
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I took a question yesterday from my noble friend Lord Howell on hybrid warfare. It is an area that NATO is looking at very carefully. The noble Lord mentioned the UK/US/Canada commission. The UK formally joined this commission earlier this year. The commission provides a framework for co-ordinating our support to Ukraine with allies, ensuring all support provided is consistent and complementary.

Lord Cromwell Portrait Lord Cromwell (CB)
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What reaction does the Minister expect from the Russian propaganda machine to this very loud announcement of the deployment of 75 people, particularly should one of the 75, God forbid, fall into their hands? Secondly, have there been any discussions with the Greek Parliament to see whether they could let us have 300 Spartans to help out?

Lord Astor of Hever Portrait Lord Astor of Hever
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My Lords, I cannot answer the second part of the noble Lord’s question. As for the first part, we would obviously rather avoid the path of confrontation with Russia. We hope that recent diplomatic efforts will bring lasting peace; the choice lies with the Kremlin. Russia faces a clear choice. If the destabilisation of Ukraine continues, there will be further sanctions and increasing isolation.