Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between William Bain and Roger Williams

Tuesday 3rd March 2015 Commons Chamber

[Mr William Bain (Glasgow North East) (Lab)]

6. What assessment he has made of the success of recent diplomatic initiatives relating to peace and security in eastern Ukraine.

[Roger Williams (Brecon and Radnorshire) (LD)]

10. What steps his Department is taking to ensure a lasting ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.

[The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr Philip Hammond)]

We support all diplomatic efforts that aim to bring about a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Ukraine. Since the latest Minsk agreement was signed on 12 February, Russian-backed separatists have seized control of the strategically important town of Debaltseve. It is not yet clear that Russia has any intention of honouring the commitments it made in Minsk. I held talks with Secretary Kerry last weekend, and I will discuss Ukraine with EU Foreign Ministers on Friday in Riga. In all such discussions, we will continue to argue for a strong and united response to Russia’s actions until such time as we see full compliance on the ground.