Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Death of PC Yvonne Fletcher

23 February 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Bob Stewart Con Beckenham

Policing & ResourcesCrime & Law Enforcement

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Bob Stewart raised concerns about death of pc yvonne fletcher in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about the death of Woman Police Constable Yvonne Fletcher in 1984 during a protest against Colonel Gaddafi's regime in London.
  • Minister acknowledges the debate's focus on Fletcher's bravery and expresses willingness to work with Members to gather evidence for a posthumous George Medal nomination.
  • Minister commits to collaborating with Members to support the case for Fletcher's recognition but notes that the decision on such awards is made by a committee.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Bob Stewart Con Beckenham

On April 17, 1984, Woman Police Constable Yvonne Fletcher was fatally wounded during a protest against Colonel Gaddafi's regime in London. Born in 1958 and determined to join the police despite physical height requirements, she eventually became a respected officer at Bow Street police station. On the day of her death, she was part of a police operation monitoring an anti-Gaddafi demonstration when gunfire from within the Libyan embassy struck her. Despite being mortally wounded, she showed immense courage and concern for others in the ambulance. She died shortly after arriving at Westminster Hospital. The incident led to the retrieval of her hat by Police Officer Clive Mabry, symbolising the respect and admiration for her sacrifice. Bob Stewart argues that Yvonne Fletcher should be posthumously awarded a George Medal, similar to Keith Palmer who was also honoured posthumously.

Other contributors (1)
  • Kit Malthouse Con North West Hampshire

    Congratulates Bob Stewart on his speech and supports the recognition of Yvonne Fletcher's bravery. Suggests that anyone can make a nomination for a gallantry award, including through unofficial channels.

Government Response

Eleanor Laing

The Minister acknowledges the emotional and positive nature of the debate about Police Constable Yvonne Fletcher's bravery. She expresses willingness to work with Bob Stewart and other Members to gather evidence for a posthumous George Medal nomination. The decision on such awards is made by a committee, but they will collaborate to support the case for recognition.

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