Backbench Business

Urges the Government to commit to NATO membership for Ukraine post-war and highlights the need for more NATO standard weaponry and training for Ukraine. Emphasises that supporting Ukraine is in the interests of global peace and security, as well as the UK's national interest.

Mr Byrne argued that the threats faced by the UK are evolving faster than ever, with Russia being at the centre of these concerns. He called for a strategy to re-contain Russia and stressed the importance of addressing economic crimes, including reforms in prevention, intelligence gathering, enforcement, and prosecution. He also emphasised the need to close down Londongrad by strengthening regulations around company registration and imposing stricter obligations on directors and enablers.

I congratulate my hon. Friend on securing this debate and for speaking passionately about NATO's expansion to the northern frontier, which sends a strong message to Russia. I agree with the importance of recognising dictators' intentions early, as seen in historical contexts like Hitler’s objectives during the 1930s. Russia made it clear through its actions that Greater Russia was an objective, leading to the current full-scale invasion of Ukraine. NATO's leadership has been commendable, but a stronger signal about Ukraine's future could have been given. The debate on frozen assets and seizing Russian national assets is crucial for economic influence post-war. International law can be developed to allow for such actions if sanctions fail to achieve their aims. We must prepare for the peace as well as the war, ensuring that we support Ukraine in its fight by providing necessary military supplies and training soldiers properly.

Mr Cowan discussed the lack of progress in clamping down on illicit finance and corrupt Russian money entering the UK. He highlighted criticisms from the Foreign Affairs Committee regarding inadequate action by the government despite rhetoric against kleptocrats, citing a decline in resources for economic crime prevention. Mr Cowan called for proactive measures including an independent commissioner to monitor assets linked to human rights abusers and new legislation to address illicit finance within the UK system, urging transparency and public accountability.

Thanked the hon. Member for Harwich and North Essex and praised the Foreign Affairs Committee's report on illicit finance in the UK. Emphasised the importance of tackling Russian threat and supporting Ukraine, while also highlighting the need for stronger measures against illicit finance. Raised concerns about the Government's delayed response to the problem before Russia's invasion and criticised the lack of progress made during the Bill's Committee stage. Called for more funding and resources for economic crime bodies and highlighted issues with sanctions enforcement. Supported the Economic Crime Act and Corporate Transparency Bill but urged further action on Russian state assets repurposing and closing loopholes in sanctions regime.

Intervened to suggest that the Prime Minister should appoint a new anti-corruption tsar, echoing calls made by his right hon. Friend the Member for Barking, who has written to the Prime Minister requesting this appointment.

Acknowledged contributions from Members and discussed the UK's significant support for Ukraine, including military aid, humanitarian assistance, and economic sanctions against Russia. She highlighted the establishment of a new military rehabilitation centre and the continuation of diplomatic efforts to strengthen NATO and address global food security issues.

Intervened to commend the Government's leadership on Ukraine, particularly regarding Sweden joining NATO and Turkey removing its veto to allow Sweden's accession. He emphasised the importance of growing support for NATO.

Asked about the possibility of seizing frozen assets for reparations, enquired whether discussions were being held on convoying grain through to resolve food security issues, and questioned if sanctions would remain in place until Russia pays for reconstruction.

Asked about the Government's stance on amendments tabled by Lord Agnew regarding economic criminals and sought clarification on whether sanctions would remain in place until Russia pays reparations.

Emphasises the solemn duty of Government to protect people from war, expresses gratitude for members' support on this motion. Stresses the importance of consensus in debate without division, highlights the affirmation of UK support for Ukraine against Russian invasion, condemns Putin’s aggression, reaffirms NATO support and Sweden's accession, urges continued military and diplomatic support until all Russian troops are expelled.