Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

National Security

15 July 2026 · 5 other contributors

Opened by Angela Eagle Lab Wallasey

Community Security

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Angela Eagle raised concerns about national security in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • The draft statutory instrument designates the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right, and the GRU Volunteer Corps.
  • The Home Secretary determined these bodies are involved in foreign power threat activity under the National Security Act 2023.
  • Designation allows for legal action against supporting these bodies and obtaining material benefits from them.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Angela Eagle Lab Wallasey

The draft statutory instrument designates three bodies: the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right, and the GRU Volunteer Corps. The Home Secretary has determined that these are involved in foreign power threat activity as defined by the National Security Act 2023. Designation enables law enforcement to disrupt designated bodies more effectively and imposes severe penalties for supporting such bodies. Once designated, it becomes a criminal offence within the UK’s jurisdiction to support or obtain material benefits from them.

Other contributors (5)
  • Angela Eagle Lab Wallasey

    The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, under Iran's Supreme Leader, poses significant threats globally and has been involved in credible plots targeting individuals in the UK. The Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right, directed by the IRGC Quds Force, is responsible for antisemitic arson attacks in Golders Green. The GRU Volunteer Corps acts as a proxy organisation under Russian military intelligence to pursue objectives through deniable forces, including support for Russia's illegal invasion in Ukraine.

  • Matt Vickers Lab Stockton West

    Supports the designation of hostile state organisations, criticises delay in deploying powers against IRGC. Highlights threat from Iran and its proxies, emphasises need for robust legislation and enforcement. Raises concern about antisemitism and intimidation against Jewish communities.

  • Alistair Carns

    Welcomes the move to proscribe hostile state organisations. Questions the Minister on measures to clamp down on Russian disinformation on social media.

  • Mark Sewards Con Cannock Chase

    Commends the Government for designating IRGC and fulfilling Prime Minister's promises. Acknowledges the threat of antisemitism, thanks the Prime Minister for turning around his party and delivering a historic majority.

  • Angela Eagle Lab Wallasey

    Discussed the introduction of new designation powers to address foreign power threat activity conducted by state-linked bodies. Highlighted the necessity for the review by Jonathan Hall KC and the subsequent changes in law. Explained that anyone supporting designated organisations will face up to 14 years in prison. Mentioned the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme as another measure to monitor such activities. Stressed the importance of social media companies acting responsibly towards state threat-linked propaganda and recruitment. Emphasised support for Jewish communities threatened by IRGC proxies, and announced additional funding for policing to protect these communities. Addressed the rise of hate speech targeting Muslim communities.

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