Oral Answers to Questions

Jamie Wallis Excerpts

Monday 20th September 2021 Commons Chamber

[Leo Docherty]

That is a top-up; the provision is more than £20 million. I look forward to discussing that in detail when I visit Combat Stress tomorrow.

[Dr Jamie Wallis (Bridgend) (Con)]

2. What steps his Department is taking to support Operation Warm Welcome.

[The Minister for Defence People and Veterans (Leo Docherty)]

The whole Government are committed to ensuring that those Afghan nationals evacuated under Op Pitting are properly supported in the UK. Defence is supporting the cross-Government effort, Op Warm Welcome, and we are extending a hand of friendship in the spirit of compassion, comradeship and community.

[Dr Wallis]

I welcome the incredible efforts of our troops undertaking one of the largest evacuations in modern history and now working to extend that hand of friendship to those brought back. Will my hon. Friend join me in thanking them all for responding with such professionalism to the challenges faced?

[Leo Docherty]

Absolutely; I am delighted to put on the record our thanks. Amid the tragic scenes in Kabul, the bravery, professionalism and compassion of 16 Air Assault Brigade, the Royal Air Force and others was a light amid the darkness.