Middle East Debate

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Department: Ministry of Defence
Monday 23rd March 2026

(1 day, 11 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
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John Healey Portrait John Healey
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I am a somewhat simple man, and I am not clear what cultural capability really means. If the hon. Gentleman would like to write to me with his proposition, I would be happy to have a look at it.

Mohammad Yasin Portrait Mohammad Yasin (Bedford) (Lab)
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One of the clearest lessons of the Chilcot inquiry was that the UK must be prepared to say no to the US when British interests, legal standards and global stability are at risk. Will the Government hold firm and not be drawn further into this conflict by a so-called ally whose conduct is unpredictable, insulting, destabilising and, in my view, deranged?

John Healey Portrait John Healey
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Let me say again that while we are taking the necessary action to defend our interests and our allies, as the Prime Minister has made clear to the House and in public, we will not get drawn into the wider war.