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NATO and European Political Community Meetings
22 July 2024
Lead MP
Keir Starmer
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
UkraineDefence
Other Contributors: 37
At a Glance
Keir Starmer raised concerns about nato and european political community meetings in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
Keir Starmer paid tribute to President Biden and discussed his recent engagements at NATO and EPC summits, emphasising the UK's commitment to security and freedom. He announced a strategic defence review, aimed at spending 2.5% of GDP on defence and delivering £3 billion in military aid annually to Ukraine for as long as needed. Starmer reaffirmed support for Israel’s right to security while also expressing concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, advocating for an immediate ceasefire. On illegal migration, he pledged new funding for projects in Africa and the Middle East addressing root causes of migration and stressed the UK's commitment to human rights.
John Woodcock
Lab
Barrow and Furness
Question
The Minister mentioned the £84 million for Africa and the Middle East, but could he provide more detail on how this funding will be used?
Minister reply
The £84 million fund will be directed towards humanitarian assistance, health support, skills training, and education to address the root causes of migration. This includes providing resources that can help people make informed decisions about their future in their own countries.
Watford
Question
Given the complex situation with illegal migration, how will the UK ensure effective collaboration with EU partners without compromising our national security interests?
Minister reply
We are committed to working closely with EU partners on illegal migration while maintaining robust measures for national security. This includes deepening co-operation across Europe and increasing the UK presence at Europol in The Hague.
Helen Hayes
Lab
Dewsbury
Question
In light of Russia's aggressive actions, how will the government ensure continued support for Ukraine without causing undue economic strain on our own nation?
Minister reply
The UK is committed to providing long-term military aid to Ukraine. We are working closely with allies to manage this while ensuring a sustainable approach that supports both Ukrainian resilience and international stability.
James Daly
Con
Heywood and Middleton
Question
How does the government plan to address the threats posed by Iran in light of its nuclear programme and support for Houthi rebels?
Minister reply
We will continue to work with our allies, including Israel and Saudi Arabia, to tackle Iranian malign activities. This includes addressing their nuclear programme and supporting regional stability through diplomatic efforts.
Rishi Sunak
Con
Richmond and Northallerton
Question
The MP thanked the Prime Minister for his statement, praising President Biden's work, AUKUS partnership, support for Israel, defence against Houthi threats, and efforts to support Ukraine. He highlighted the importance of alliances in a more uncertain world and expressed readiness to discuss third-country migration partnerships with European leaders while ensuring trade-offs are balanced. The MP also addressed NATO’s commitment to Ukraine, security co-operation with EU allies, and the right of Israel to defend itself against threats from Iran-aligned Houthi rebels.
Minister reply
The Leader of the Opposition thanked the Prime Minister for his comments on President Biden and foreign policy consensus in the UK Parliament. He emphasised unity across parties regarding Ukraine, acknowledged previous Government support, affirmed AUKUS support, stressed uniting on complex issues like Gaza.
Liam Byrne
Lab
Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull North
Question
The MP congratulated the Prime Minister for his approach to building a rights-based order and asked about discussions with international colleagues regarding freezing Russian assets and putting them towards defeating Putin.
Minister reply
The Leader of the Opposition thanked the MP for raising Ukraine's issue centrality, affirming resource, resolve, and sanctions necessity. He highlighted NATO’s unity in resisting Russian aggression.
Edward Davey
Lib Dem
Kingston and Surbiton
Question
The MP welcomed closer co-operation with European neighbours on Russia's war against Ukraine and small-boats crisis, supported immediate ceasefire in Gaza, upholding international law. He asked about NATO summit pledge of long-term security assistance for Ukraine, increased support now to resist Russian attacks, and liberation of Ukrainian territory. The MP questioned the impact of US elections on UK and allies' security, urged increasing defence spending, and sought reassurance that reversing planned cuts to the Army would be a priority in the strategic defence review.
Minister reply
The Leader of the Opposition thanked the right hon Gentleman for raising issues about international courts, US elections, low numbers of troops, which will be looked at in the strategic defence review.
Rupa Huq
Lab
Ealing Central and Acton
Question
It was incredibly pleasing to see the Prime Minister both at NATO and welcoming leaders from across our continent to Blenheim palace, at a historic moment for a reset with Europe after the disastrous legacy that the departing Government left behind. Did the subject of youth mobility for students and suchlike arise, and could his Government look into repairing it for its soft power, cultural exchange and growth-boosting properties that have been so valued, as we are now in a post-Erasmus era?
Minister reply
I thank my hon. Friend for her question. The reset with our European allies was well received, and there was clearly an appetite to work in a different and better way with the UK, which I think will stand us in good stead as we go forward. We did have discussions about a closer relationship with our EU allies, but I made it very clear from the outset—as I have done in opposition—that that does not mean rejoining the EU, it does not mean going back into the structures of the EU, and it does not mean freedom of movement.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Question
May I congratulate the Prime Minister on his election victory, and particularly on the very strong commitment he gave at the beginning of his campaign to the maintenance of the strategic Trident nuclear deterrent in the future? Does he agree that, if there had existed in 1914 or in 1939 an organisation like NATO that committed America to the protection from day one of countries such as Belgium in the one case or Poland in the other, those two terrible conflicts might well never have broken out? Does he therefore share my concern that the virus of isolationism is again on the move in certain parts of the American political spectrum?
Minister reply
I thank the right hon. Member for that question. First, I was able to make clear our unshakeable commitment to the nuclear deterrent, something I did in opposition. I have been able to make that absolutely clear as Prime Minister, and it was very important that I did so from the outset.
Rachael Maskell
Lab Co-op
York Central
Question
I congratulate my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on the leadership he showed not just at NATO, but at the European Political Community. Working together and collaborating are important, not least in the unstable world that we are in. Could he set out what discussions he had about the EU-UK trade and co-operation agreement in the light of its renegotiation deadlines next year?
Minister reply
I was able to have early discussion about the EU-UK trade arrangements of a preliminary sort. There is an appetite for that discussion—no one pretends that it is an easy discussion—and I am pleased to have appointed a Minister, the Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office, who will take responsibility for that important work.
Julian Smith
Con
Skipton and Ripon
Question
Can I, first, congratulate the Prime Minister on his election win, and wish him the very best in his new role? Building on the last question, the EPC summit seemed very positive. How does he see using this political locus to get the UK in the best possible position for the renegotiation of the TCA in 2026?
Minister reply
I thank the right hon. Member for his comments. There is an appetite now for a different discussion about our future relations with the EU—whether that is trade, education and research, or security co-operation.
Paul Waugh
Lab Co-op
Rochdale
Question
The Prime Minister’s statement will be warmly welcomed by the people of Rochdale, particularly the Ukrainian community, which has flourished in our town for nearly 80 years. So can I pass on to him a direct message from Olga Kurtianyk, who is the chair of the Rochdale branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain, who told me yesterday that she is very grateful for the Prime Minister’s continued support for President Zelensky in the fight against the illegal war that Putin has waged?
Minister reply
I am very pleased to hear that, and to be able to make that clear commitment. But I want to emphasise that this is the continuation of the work of the previous Government, which we fully supported before and fully support now.
Stephen Gethins
SNP
Arbroath and Broughty Ferry
Question
May I also add my personal congratulations to the Prime Minister on his election win? The international rules-based system is the cornerstone of peace and security. The Prime Minister talks of a ceasefire in Gaza and the application of the rule of law. What measures is he willing to take to make sure that is implemented?
Minister reply
In relation to a ceasefire, obviously talks are under way at quite an advanced stage and we have already urged all sides in the international discussions that I have had to move forward on a ceasefire.
Josh Simons
Lab
Makerfield
Question
For my constituents in Makerfield, restoring control over our borders is a key issue of concern. It has become a matter of public trust. Does the Prime Minister agree that the new border security command is an opportunity to show how the UK can play a leading role in tackling criminal smuggler gangs?
Minister reply
Yes I do, and the command is based on the work I did as Director of Public Prosecutions, working with law enforcement and security and intelligence sharing with our allies—in the cases I was working on to deal with counter-terrorism.
Maldon
Question
I welcome the Prime Minister's reiteration that the UK remains the strongest supporter of Ukraine against Russian aggression, but what support can we also give to another former Soviet state, Armenia, both in resolving its conflict with Azerbaijan, and in pursuing its ambition to move closer to NATO and the European Union in the face of Russian threats and intimidation?
Minister reply
I am grateful for that question. This came up in the discussions last Thursday, as would have been expected, with a joint resolve to provide the support and framework needed for peace and security across the entire region.
Fred Thomas
Lab
Plymouth Moor View
Question
I am one of 12 newly elected Members on this side of the House who have served in the armed forces, and in Plymouth so many of my friends and neighbours have served as well. All of us are deeply concerned by the ongoing illegal invasion and inhumane, increasingly barbaric, tactics Russia is using. Will the Prime Minister agree with me that in an uncertain world one thing we can be sure of is that Ukraine has no firmer friend than the UK?
Minister reply
Yes, I can confirm that and emphasise just how important it is. We had the honour of hosting President Zelensky at Downing Street on Friday, where I was able to make that clear.
Caroline Johnson
Con
Sleaford and North Hykeham
Question
My constituents in Sleaford and North Hykeham are very concerned about levels of illegal migration, particularly people crossing the channel. I was pleased to hear the Prime Minister say that he wants to tackle it. He mentioned two measures: £84 million to tackle root causes and the focus, which is arguably already present, from law enforcement. In the last seven days, 1,500 people crossed the channel. How many of them would he expect to have been deterred by the measures he describes?
Minister reply
This is a real problem that we have inherited because not enough attention has been paid to border control in my view. Record numbers have come this year.
Andrew Lewin
Lab
Welwyn Hatfield
Question
I thank the Prime Minister for his statement, and I thank him particularly for his commitment to resetting our relationship with the European Union. It is regrettable that the deal signed by the Opposition when they were in government did real damage to our economy. Does the Prime Minister agree that now is the time for a new relationship and to take practical measures, such as the mutual recognition of professional qualifications, to increase our alignment with the European Union?
Minister reply
I do not think the deal we have is good enough. We can have a better relationship, but I do not think we can simply ignore the referendum and go back into the EU.
Dwyfor Meirionnydd
Question
I welcome that the Prime Minister says that there is an appetite for a reset in our relationship with our European neighbours. A core element of collective European security is collective economic security. He knows that being outside the single market and the customs union has cost the UK economy almost £140 billion. How will he remedy this toxic Tory legacy by continuing to refuse even to consider rejoining those economic structures?
Minister reply
I think the relationship can improve. We can have a better relationship, but I do not think we can simply ignore the referendum and go back into the EU.
Joe Morris
Lab
Hexham
Question
The Hexham constituency, as the Prime Minister will know, is home to the Otterburn ranges, which have played a key role in training our armed forces for decades. What steps will the Prime Minister take to improve the working relationship between our armed forces and those of our NATO allies?
Minister reply
Our armed forces provide huge resource to NATO, particularly in Europe, and across our armed forces we are fully committed in almost every respect to NATO.
Kit Malthouse
Con
North West Hampshire
Question
The Prime Minister has given us fine words about the importance of our membership of international institutions, particularly international courts. Can he please assure us that he is considering hard consequences for the very obvious flagrant breach of international law that is taking place daily in Gaza and the west bank?
Minister reply
I am grateful for that question, because I believe in international law and I think it is very important that we keep to our commitments on international law.
Adam Jogee
Lab
Newcastle-under-Lyme
Question
I welcome the Prime Minister’s statement. Does the Prime Minister agree with me and the people of Newcastle-under-Lyme that the only way to stop illegal migration and the subsequent tragic loss of life is by our United Kingdom working more closely with our European neighbours to smash the gangs who run this vile trade?
Minister reply
Yes, I do. We have already been able to put further resource into Europol.
Richard Foord
Lib Dem
Honiton and Sidmouth
Question
The last Government spent quite some time engaging with isolationists in Washington. They sought to influence conservative think-tanks in the US that are listened to by Republicans, such as the Heritage Foundation. What more can his Government do to stress to Republicans, and to candidate Trump, that European and American security are indivisible?
Minister reply
We will work with whoever the American people elect as President.
Sally Jameson
Lab Co-op
Doncaster Central
Question
Does the Prime Minister agree that we need a “NATO first” defence policy in the face of growing Russian aggression, as seen in Ukraine? Will he join me in paying tribute to the Doncaster Ukrainian Centre in my constituency, which has worked tirelessly around the clock to support Ukrainian refugees?
Minister reply
Let me start by joining in that, and making it clear that this work, done in so many communities, is really important.
Desmond Swayne
Con
New Forest West
Question
Why do we continue to limit Ukraine’s ability to take the fight to Russia?
Minister reply
The approach to capability taken by the UK remains the same as it was three weeks ago.
John Slinger
Lab
Rugby
Question
Does the Prime Minister agree that the strength and unity of purpose expressed by our international alliances is mirrored and enhanced by the solidarity and friendship that the British people have shown by accommodating Ukrainians in this country? Would he join me in praising the work of the Rugby Ukrainian community?
Minister reply
Yes on both points. A number of months ago, in Swindon, I was struck by the incredible contribution of Ukrainian women.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Question
I congratulate the Prime Minister on the office that he has achieved and thank him for his statement. In all his meetings with both the EU and NATO, was the issue of global war considered—not just the wars in Ukraine and Palestine, but those in Sudan, Congo and Yemen—and the possibility of involving the UN much more in looking towards a more peaceful future?
Minister reply
Let me deal with both points. First, conflict resolution did come up.
Katie White
Lab
Leeds North West
Question
I congratulate the Prime Minister on a very successful set of meetings last week. Does he agree that the shifting relationship with the European Union led by the previous Government has made us economically poorer, and undermines small businesses such as the toy shop in Horsforth in my constituency?
Minister reply
Businesses across the country that deal with Europe feel that the deal that the last Government negotiated is not good enough for them.
North Cotswolds
Question
I congratulate the Prime Minister on his recent meetings and inquire about the timeline for new policies to tackle illegal migration across the channel.
Minister reply
We have begun early measures, such as establishing a border security command and increasing staff in the returns unit, but I am not ready to provide an arbitrary date for when these measures will start showing results.
Mark Ferguson
Lab
Gateshead Central and Whickham
Question
Inquiring about Ukraine's future entry into NATO following President Zelensky's statement regarding the North Atlantic Council.
Minister reply
The path to NATO membership for Ukraine is now irreversible, as committed by the North Atlantic Council.
Greg Smith
Con
Mid Buckinghamshire
Question
Asking about advice received and steps taken regarding Hamas infiltration of UNRWA before committing UK funds.
Minister reply
Careful consideration was given to concerns raised, an independent review has been conducted, and appropriate steps have been put in place.
Joe Powell
Lab
Kensington and Bayswater
Question
Welcoming the initiative against Russia’s shadow fleet of sanctions-evading ships and asking for updates on international negotiations using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine.
Minister reply
Important progress was made at NATO regarding sanctions, and regular updates will be provided as appropriate.
Calum Miller
Lib Dem
Bicester and Woodstock
Question
Suggesting talks with the European Union on a youth mobility scheme to improve opportunities for young people.
Minister reply
We are not returning to freedom of movement, but we believe there is room for better deals that can be worked on across the House.
Peter Swallow
Lab
Bracknell
Question
Welcoming the Government’s commitment to setting out a path towards spending 2.5% of GDP on defence and asking about conversations with NATO allies.
Minister reply
We are committed to increasing our contribution to 2.5%, and discussions at the NATO council have resulted in commitments from other members.
Mike Wood
Con
Kingswinford and South Staffordshire
Question
Inquiring about the Government's stance on automatically applying EU rules in Britain without specific agreement by this Parliament.
Minister reply
The Prime Minister confirms that his Government will not accept automatic application of EU rules unless specifically agreed by this Parliament.
Oliver Ryan
Ind
Burnley
Question
Praising the Prime Minister's leadership on NATO and recommitment to a two-state solution in the Middle East, asking for sober solutions rather than extreme rhetoric.
Minister reply
Agrees that international agreement is needed for a ceasefire, aid provision, hostage release, and the process leading to a lasting resolution of the conflict.
Shadow Comment
Rishi Sunak
Shadow Comment
Rishi Sunak praised President Biden and acknowledged the Prime Minister’s work at NATO and EPC meetings. He emphasised the importance of alliances in today’s uncertain world, particularly regarding Ukraine, Russia, Iran, and China. Sunak welcomed discussions on illegal migration and urged pragmatism in finding solutions, while also advocating for continued support to Ukraine and a commitment to invest 2.5% of GDP in defence by 2030.
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