Ukraine and Russia: Ceasefire

Debate between Lord Robertson of Port Ellen and Lord Sharpe of Epsom

Thursday 20th January 2022 Lords Chamber

[Lord Sharpe of Epsom (Con)]

I am sorry but I shall have to write to the right reverend Prelate on that. I have not seen Sergey Lavrov’s statement.

[Lord Robertson of Port Ellen (Lab)]

My Lords, I was the first chairman of the NATO-Russia Council. I am delighted that it is now back in session and that there are now opportunities to both disagree and agree in that forum. I hope it is kept alive and that the United Kingdom does so. However, is it not a matter of some regret that this country, our country, was not involved in the original Normandy process, which led to the Minsk agreement? Is it not now time for Her Majesty’s Government to consider getting back into the Normandy process and being part of the exercise that perhaps will produce a diplomatic solution?

[Lord Sharpe of Epsom (Con)]

I thank the noble Lord for his question. I cannot say whether or not that is a matter of regret. Of course, the UK Government continue to work closely with all allies and that includes the Normandy group.