Japan and the Middle East Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Japan and the Middle East

Mark Hendrick Excerpts
Monday 14th March 2011

(13 years, 2 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Mark Hendrick Portrait Mark Hendrick (Preston) (Lab/Co-op)
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Further to the question from the hon. Member for Wellingborough (Mr Bone), has the Prime Minister assessed—or is he aware of any such assessment—how soon a no-fly zone must be implemented for it not only to save civilians on the ground, but to change the course of events there?

Lord Cameron of Chipping Norton Portrait The Prime Minister
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That is a very good question. The point is that a no-fly zone may not make a decisive military difference, but it could make a difference. Clearly, the sooner it is put in place, the more difference it could make. However, the British Government are extremely clear that the three conditions must be in place—there must be a legal basis, regional support and a demonstrable need. Clearly, if those three conditions are met and if international partners want to go ahead, the sooner the better, because the effect, which people can debate, will be that much the greater.