Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Sanctions 2025-05-14

14 May 2025 · 10 other contributors

Opened by Stephen Doughty Con Constituency

UkraineForeign Affairs

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Stephen Doughty raised concerns about sanctions 2025-05-14 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office moves approval for The Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025.
  • The latest sanctions package includes 110 targets against Russian oil transportation to target Russia's revenues and military complex.
  • The Minister outlines bans on technology transfers, software, synthetic diamonds, helium, and other critical products to constrain Russia's economic growth and ability to fund its military operations.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Stephen Doughty Con Constituency

The Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office moves the approval of The Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025. He emphasises that sanctions are a powerful tool for peace and security, detailing how the UK has targeted Russia's revenues and military complex since coming into power, with the latest package including 110 targets against Russian oil transportation. The Minister also highlights the UK's total support for Ukraine at £18 billion, including £3 billion of military aid annually.

Other contributors (10)
  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    The hon. Member commends the Government on their sanctions measures and asks about pursuing frozen Russian assets with a vengeance to use them for Ukraine's benefit.

  • Julian Lewis Con New Forest East

    The right hon. Gentleman inquires about the effect of sanctions on shipments of oil to third parties, such as India, and seeks assurance that all options are under consideration to limit Russia's war machine.

  • James MacCleary LD Lewes

    Congratulates the Government on their work to date on sanctioning Russia and supports expanding sanctions regime in three ways: extending export bans, banning transfer of associated software, and introducing import bans. Also calls for more serious consideration of seizing Russian state assets.

  • Lisa Smart LD Hazel Grove

    Agrees with James MacCleary's points and emphasises the importance of closing loopholes that allow Russian oligarchs to continue laundering money in London. Also supports moving from freezing to seizing Russian assets if a multilateral agreement cannot be found.

  • Stephen Doughty

    Appreciates strong support for sanctions across the House and outlines measures being taken by the Government, including targeting hundreds of vessels involved in circumventing third-country sanctions. Acknowledges complexity around proceeds from Chelsea FC but assures that all options are being explored to ensure funds reach humanitarian causes.

  • Robin Swann UUP South Antrim

    Asks about work on shadow oil fleet supplying money and support to Putin, which is addressed by Stephen Doughty as an ongoing high priority issue with robust action taken against entities involved.

  • The right hon. Member for Aldridge-Brownhills Wendy Morton

    Emphasised the importance of continued support for Ukraine and highlighted the activities of North Korea, Iran, and others in supporting Russia's actions.

  • The hon. Member for Lewes

    Asked about enforcement of sanctions and raised the important role of the Council of Europe.

  • James MacCleary

    Inquired about those resisting the Russian regime within Russia and their risk, seeking support for these individuals.

  • Stephen Doughty

    Stressed that opposition is to Putin's regime rather than to the Russian people, calling for release of political prisoners and highlighting figures like Vladimir Kara-Murza and Yulia Navalnaya.

Government Response

Stephen Doughty

The Minister outlines further measures in the statutory instrument targeting Russia’s revenue streams and prohibiting UK expertise from being used in Russia’s defence and energy sectors. He details bans on technology transfers, software, synthetic diamonds, helium, and other critical products to constrain Russia's economic growth and ability to fuel its war machine. Outlines the Government's measures in response to shadow Minister questions regarding third-country circumvention, proceeds from Chelsea FC, tranches of ERA funding, and Russian sovereign assets. Emphasises ongoing work with international partners on lawful options for seizing Russian assets. Asserted continued support for Ukraine and work with Government Departments to ensure London is not used by kleptocrats. Mentioned substantial impact of sanctions on Russia, including tax hikes and financial losses.

Shadow Response

Wendy Morton

The shadow Minister supports the measures but pushes for wider secondary sanctions, urgent action on the sale of Chelsea football club proceeds, clarification on the £2.26 billion loan disbursement timeline, and confirmation of ongoing work to mobilise sanctioned assets.

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