Oral Answers to Questions

Barry Sheerman Excerpts

Monday 20th May 2024 Commons Chamber

[Leo Docherty]

We certainly will. Through the biological security strategy and the associated governance structure, we are working closely with the UK Health Security Agency to co-ordinate our response to the biodefence risk, and we are investing £5 million a year in our international biosecurity programme, so we are on the same page.

[Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op)]

Does the Minister agree that there are real concerns in the light of recent reports about the increasing recklessness with which Russian operatives may interfere in our economy, directly and indirectly, and every other aspect of British lives? Are we prepared for that kind of mischievousness?

[Leo Docherty]

Yes, we are.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Speaker]

I call Barry Sheerman. [Interruption.] Barry Sheerman?

[Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op)]

T9. I am sorry, Mr Speaker, I was thinking of an even better question— Stick to the main one. Indeed. As you know, Mr Speaker, my family comes from a military background, although I am not a military expert. Time and again, my constituents say they have heard about a shortage of shells, ammunition and others things that we cannot supply to the Ukrainians. What is the hold-up? Why are we not working 24/7 to produce the tools that our Ukrainian allies want?

[James Cartlidge]

The hon. Gentleman asks about the supply of shells. I am delighted to tell to him that we previously confirmed the provision of 300,000 artillery shells to Ukraine. The latest figure is that this country has procured 400,000 artillery shells directly into Ukraine.