House of Commons · Bill Debate
18 December 2024 · 16 other contributors
Opened by Caroline Nokes Con Romsey and Southampton North
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Caroline Nokes raised concerns about the ukraine recovery act 2024 - clause 1 and new clause 1 in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Ms Caroline Nokes proposes new clause 1 which establishes an annual reporting requirement for the UK’s share of loans to Ukraine, detailing the amount provided by the United Kingdom under section 1(a), including the principal loan amount, interest accrued, extraordinary profits from Russian assets, and summarises discussions between HM Government and other G7 governments. This is intended to ensure transparency and accountability regarding financial assistance to Ukraine.
Proposes new clause 1, which requires annual reports on UK’s share of loans to Ukraine, detailing financial assistance provided and summarising G7 discussions.
Welcomes the bill as a vital funding measure for Ukraine, highlighting support from across parties. Emphasises the legal authority granted by Clause 1 to fulfill UK’s commitment and the multilateral nature of the scheme.
Welcomes the Government’s measures but questions if there is a permanent set mind against seizing Russian assets directly, suggesting consideration of this option.
Encourages the Government to continue looking at issues around asset seizure, highlighting the potential game-changing impact of using frozen assets directly.
Supports the UK’s contribution for Ukraine but raises questions about discussions with other G7 nations, the timing of UK’s contributions, and risks if EU does not extend sanctions on Russia.
New Clause 1 would impose a reporting requirement on the Secretary of State to inform Parliament about three critical aspects: monetary support provided to Ukraine, share of principal loan amount and interest accrued, and extraordinary profits from immobilised Russian sovereign assets. This ensures transparency and keeps pressure on the Government to engage with G7 partners for more ambitious measures.
The Bill is a critical step in supporting Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression. It provides spending authority enabling financial assistance, part of the G7 scheme to support Ukraine’s recovery from the war's devastation. The UK has provided £450 million in humanitarian aid and pledged ongoing military and diplomatic support.
Proposes using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's reconstruction, citing the $300 billion in assets held by free countries. Emphasises moral justification, legal underpinnings, and urgency due to Russia’s isolation.
Supports the Bill for its role in backing Ukraine against Russian invasion. Acknowledges community support for Ukrainian refugees and seeks clarity on the future of the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
Endorses colleagues' comments, highlighting historical context with World War II defensive barriers built by Polish and Ukrainian soldiers. Supports engagement with European partners on frozen assets.
Welcomes the Bill for its commitment to supporting Ukraine financially using Russian assets. Urges swift resolution on sale of Chelsea FC proceeds and recommends establishment of a working group to ensure funds are used effectively.
David Taylor supports the Bill, emphasising its significance in aiding Ukraine’s fight against Russian tyranny. He cites his personal experience of delivering military pick-up trucks to Ukrainian soldiers and highlights how the Bill will provide a £2.26 billion contribution through revenue acceleration without burdening British taxpayers or Ukraine. Additionally, he praises previous government support for Ukraine and urges for rapid Royal Assent as winter approaches and battle conditions worsen.
Jones argued against new clause 1 by detailing why it is unnecessary and could undermine diplomatic efforts with G7 allies. He emphasised that the Government's commitment to transparency would be upheld through existing reporting channels and highlighted the importance of maintaining privacy in discussions for global security purposes.
[INTERVENTION] Julian Lewis, a Conservative MP from New Forest East, interjected to highlight the need for immediate investment in defence to deter future conflicts. He echoed Gregor Poynton’s concern that failure to act could lead to British troops being involved in costly wars and urged Treasury colleagues to consider this.
The member supports the Bill, emphasising that it is a continuation of the UK's strong support for Ukraine since Boris Johnson galvanised Western defence efforts. He cites recent military engagements in Ukraine and highlights the humanitarian impact, noting over 8 million internally displaced Ukrainians and 6 million refugees. The speech also acknowledges British charities’ work to assist those affected by the conflict.
The member supports the Bill, advocating for measures beyond financial aid, such as using frozen Russian assets to help rebuild Ukraine. He emphasises the need for accountability and justice through the repurposing of seized assets. MacCleary highlights the importance of continued military support and international co-operation with NATO and the EU.