Ukraine: Military Support

Lord West of Spithead Excerpts
Thursday 12th September 2024

(2 months, 1 week ago)

Lords Chamber
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Baroness Chapman of Darlington Portrait Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)
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The right reverend Prelate mentions escalation and mission creep. I point out that this war could end very quickly—today—with a decision by the Russians to withdraw their troops. On Iran, we and international partners have been clear that we would take new and significant measures against Iran if the transfers took place. We and our E3 partners, France and Germany, are therefore cancelling bilateral arrangements with Iran, which will restrict Iran’s air services into the UK and Europe. Together with the US, we are co-ordinating sanctions against Iranian and Russian individuals and organisations.

Lord West of Spithead Portrait Lord West of Spithead (Lab)
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Can my noble friend confirm that the extra funding being provided is not going to come from our already depleted defence budget?

Baroness Chapman of Darlington Portrait Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)
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My Lords, I invite my noble friend to read the National Audit Office report, which was very complimentary about the work that has been done and the support that has been provided for Ukraine. I am sure that he will agree that the defence of Ukraine against Russian aggression is the defence of Europe, yes, but of the UK also.