Brussels Terrorist Attacks

Prime Minister Theresa May discussed the terrorist attacks in Brussels, expressing condolences and solidarity with Belgium. She outlined measures taken by the UK government to maintain security within the country, including increased border checks, enhanced searching at ports, and deployment of additional police officers at specific locations. The Prime Minister also emphasised the importance of international cooperation against terrorism, mentioning strengthened co-operation through forums such as the Five Eyes alliance and counter-terrorism group.

Expresses support for increased security cooperation with Belgium and other European countries through EU mechanisms, questioning recent suggestions that such mechanisms endanger UK security. Emphasises the importance of using EU mechanisms to enhance national security.

Welcomed the Home Secretary’s statement on attacks in Brussels and Turkey, expressing condolences. Emphasised the Scottish National Party's commitment to protecting Scotland, and asked for reassurances regarding safety measures and the importance of a united community.

Reiterated that threat level remains severe but not raised. Confirmed increased police presence at transport hubs and enhanced Border Force activity. Emphasised the need for intelligence services to have necessary powers, and highlighted efforts in countering terrorist propaganda online.

Asked the Home Secretary to ensure that Muslim communities continue their habit of cooperating with police and security services to maintain a vital flow of information against terrorism.

Agreed on the importance of maintaining cooperation from Muslim communities, indicating ongoing efforts to encourage people to provide information regarding potential threats.

Complimented the Home Secretary's statement and budgetary support for counter-terrorism. Raised concerns about the EU’s external border security, particularly at Greece-Turkey borders, urging support to Greek authorities.

Confirmed ongoing support to Greece and efforts to strengthen EU’s external border. Noted the UK's ability to conduct further checks on individuals entering from continental ports despite Schengen agreement.

Suggested that the channel is now our best bulwark against terrorism and asked for enhanced passport checks at UK borders, including European passports.

Confirmed increased border checks by Border Force but clarified misunderstanding regarding UK’s existing border security measures.

Agreed that groups like Daesh are indiscriminate in their attacks and target fundamental European values such as democracy, freedom of religion, human rights and law and order.

Acknowledged the indiscriminate nature of Daesh’s attacks and emphasised the importance of defending our fundamental societal values against such threats.

Suggested that modern digital powers, including bulk powers, are necessary for security services to combat terrorist propaganda and recruitment online.

Highlighted the necessity of the Investigatory Powers Bill for enhancing security and intelligence capabilities. Emphasised the fight against terrorism both domestically and internationally, including collaboration with European partners and strengthening cross-border security measures.

Stressed the importance of combating global jihadist ideology by protecting citizens and upholding democratic values. Urged the government to make this battle about more than just critical public safety, but also about promoting core values such as democracy and human rights.

Asked whether it is a priority to assist Syrian forces that have ceased hostilities in recovering territory controlled by ISIL-Daesh, suggesting the ease with which Daesh can plan attacks from its territorial control.

Expressed support for the Home Secretary and mentioned the necessity of cross-border cooperation between the UK and Ireland to prevent further terrorist ingress. Inquired about increased levels of co-operation.

Asked whether security arrangements at Holyhead, a significant point of entry from within the common travel area, are adequate in addressing the terrorist threat as perceived by the government.

Questioned if there were any unnecessary obstacles to sharing vital intelligence with European partners and allies quickly to help fight terrorism effectively.

Asked the Home Secretary to ensure that travel advice prioritises safety but is mindful of its impact on partner nations, highlighting the case of Tunisia post-Paris attacks.

Expressed solidarity with Belgium and Brussels. Inquired about progress in recruiting additional armed police officers for London's Metropolitan Police post-Paris attacks, suggesting the programme might need to be accelerated.

Asked whether the Home Secretary would ensure that international partners support the Investigatory Powers Bill so it can be practically and swiftly enforced elsewhere.

Inquired about satisfaction with security measures at international airports with flights to the UK, receiving a detailed response on the ongoing programme for assessing and enhancing airport security globally.

Welcomed the Home Secretary's statement and cross-party condemnation of terrorist acts in Brussels. Asked about support from internet service providers to combat sophisticated digital communication used by terrorists.

Expressed sympathy with Brussels and asked the Home Secretary to reassure soccer fans travelling for UEFA European Championship that every step will be taken to ensure their safety at football stadiums.

The Home Secretary discussed the importance of cooperation with other countries and their security forces, particularly in relation to major events like European football. She also emphasised the need for digital intelligence collaboration and shared concerns about the Investigatory Powers Bill.

Asked about steps being taken with companies such as Apple, Samsung, and Blackberry to ensure cooperation on digital surveillance for safety. He highlighted the importance of these technologies in ensuring security.

Asked if lessons had been learned from past failures in intelligence sharing, specifically referencing deficiencies after the Paris attacks which led to subsequent issues in Belgium. He sought assurance that these lessons were being integrated into current security strategies.

Welcomed the Home Secretary’s statement and raised concerns about countering terrorist propaganda online, suggesting theological arguments should be used to address radicalisation. He inquired about steps being taken with faith communities for this purpose.

Emphasised the importance of targeting financial support to terrorist networks as a key strategy against terrorism and asked if there was close collaboration between government departments to address this issue effectively.

Asked about resources available for GCHQ, highlighting its critical role in security and intelligence operations following recent terrorist attacks. He sought assurance that it would continue to receive necessary support.

Expressed concerns about the rise of hate crimes, particularly those targeting Muslim communities, after terrorist incidents and asked for assurances regarding adequate police support and resources to address these issues effectively.

Asked for an update on assessments related to security risks facing Jewish communities following recent attacks. He sought assurance of government action against anti-Semitic incidents and support from the House in condemning such activities.

Suggested that Muslim groups should lead efforts to counter radicalisation narratives rather than non-Muslims, asking if the government is prepared to back these groups even when they might not align with liberal values.

Asked about measures in place for individuals returning from conflict zones who may pose a threat. He sought assurances that those returning would be assessed and necessary interventions implemented on a case-by-case basis.

Reiterated condemnations of terrorist attacks, particularly those not aligned with his faith. He praised the budget for intelligence services but also raised concerns about Border Force effectiveness and local policing resources in combating radicalisation.

Suggested that rail operators and airline companies should prominently display government guidance on staying safe during potential attacks, highlighting the importance of public awareness and preparedness.

Asked the Home Secretary to confirm whether Abdelhamid Abaaoud visited Birmingham, and inquired about his associates.

Expressed concerns about local families worried about radicalisation of family members and asked how they can be supported.

Asked whether the European convention on human rights provides protection or additional protection to those living in the UK who may intend to carry out terrorist activity.

Inquired about assurances that Border Force has been strengthened at Gatwick airport, especially given its proximity to the Schengen area.

Asked whether there are intentions to upgrade security checks or implement spot checks outside the current security system due to recent attacks in Brussels.

Welcomed the conciliatory tone adopted during the debate on the Investigatory Powers Bill and hoped for a constructive process moving forward.

Asked for assurance that police forces have the resources needed to increase the number of armed officers rapidly in response to recent incidents.

Inquired about discussions with the Ministry of Defence regarding military support for civilian law enforcement, particularly outside metropolitan areas.

Asked specifically about work underway to disrupt the flow of weapons and explosives both in the UK and across Europe.

Suggested considering how to effectively exchange security information with allies through membership of international organisations such as NATO and OSCE.