Libya and the Middle East Debate

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Department: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Ben Bradshaw

Main Page: Ben Bradshaw (Labour - Exeter)

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Oral Answers to Questions

Libya and the Middle East

Ben Bradshaw Excerpts

Points of Order
Monday 7th March 2011

(14 years, 7 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Hague of Richmond Portrait Mr Hague
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Yes, absolutely—I certainly give that assurance.

Ben Bradshaw Portrait Mr Ben Bradshaw (Exeter) (Lab)
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If the object of the mission was to make contact with the leaders of free Libya, why did those involved not go straight into Benghazi, as scores of international journalists have done? Does that not illustrate a lack of grip and competence right at the heart of government?

Lord Hague of Richmond Portrait Mr Hague
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As I explained earlier, in answer to the right hon. Member for Paisley and Renfrewshire South (Mr Alexander), whenever we deploy diplomats in a dangerous situation, we provide a level of protection based on professional and military advice. We do that in several other countries, so it is not an unusual thing to have to do, and we did it on this occasion too.

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