Defence and Security Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Defence and Security

Gordon McKee Excerpts
Tuesday 25th February 2025

(1 day, 20 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
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Keir Starmer Portrait The Prime Minister
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Yes, it is, because I agree with the hon. and learned Gentleman that it is the strength of our deterrent that counts in a moment like this. I am very proud of our armed forces—those who have provided so much for so long—but now is a time to ask more of them and to step up.

Gordon McKee Portrait Gordon McKee (Glasgow South) (Lab)
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The Prime Minister spoke about the threat that Russia poses in our waters. Just a few weeks ago, I saw a piece of undersea cable that had been cut, almost certainly by a Russian vessel. What more can the Government do to protect Britain’s undersea infrastructure from foreign attack?

Keir Starmer Portrait The Prime Minister
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I thank my hon. Friend for raising that issue. It is a bit like cyber: the way in which conflict, war and aggression are demonstrated these days is changing, and we must protect our vital assets, including the cables under the sea. I have had extensive conversations with European allies and NATO about how we can better protect that infrastructure.