Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

South China Sea: Freedom of Navigation

03 September 2020 · 0 other contributors

Opened by Andrew Bowie Con West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine

Foreign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Andrew Bowie raised concerns about south china sea: freedom of navigation in the House of Commons. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • MP Andrew Bowie raised concerns about Chinese naval expansion, territorial claims, and environmental damage in the South China Sea.
  • The Minister Nigel Adams acknowledged these concerns and stated that the UK supports international law and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
  • The Minister committed to depositing a legal analysis paper on the South China Sea issue in Parliament libraries.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Andrew Bowie Con West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine

MP Andrew Bowie raised concerns about Chinese activities in the South China sea, including naval expansion, territorial claims, and environmental damage. He cited historical data showing China's rapid naval growth and its impact on international law and free trade. The MP highlighted the importance of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) ruling against China’s claims and emphasised the need for Britain to uphold maritime freedoms through increased military presence and support for allies.

Government Response

Nigel Adams

Minister Nigel Adams acknowledged MP Andrew Bowie's concerns about Chinese activities in the South China sea. He stated that the UK supports international law, particularly UNCLOS, and upholds maritime freedom of navigation. The Minister committed to depositing a legal analysis paper on the South China sea issue in Parliament libraries. He detailed the UK’s position on low-tide elevations, rocks, islands, and maritime delimitation, emphasising that land reclamation cannot change natural features' legal status under UNCLOS. Adams also highlighted Britain's commitment to freedom of navigation and environmental protection, reinforcing the importance of global maritime law.

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