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Sanctions: Russia
09 September 2024
Lead MP
Hamish Falconer
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
ImmigrationUkraineBrexit
Other Contributors: 10
At a Glance
Hamish Falconer raised concerns about sanctions: russia 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:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The instrument amends the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 and aims to strengthen sanctions against Russia. The UK has contributed £40 million to NATO's comprehensive assistance package for Ukraine, and new orders worth £300 million have been placed through the international fund administered by the UK. Sanctions are crucial in weakening Russia’s ability to attack Ukraine. The instrument enhances the UK’s power to target foreign financial institutions facilitating transactions on behalf of Russia’s military industrial base. It also broadens designation criteria under the Russia regime, allowing sanctions against ships involved in destabilizing activities towards Ukraine. Additionally, it enables targeting individuals or entities who provide financial and material support to Russian efforts.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Asked about the effectiveness of sanctions on businesses and super yacht owners, highlighting that China and Russia have sanctioned him alongside others in the House. Also questioned whether discussions had been held to prevent India from contravening these sanctions.
Alicia Kearns
Con
Rutland and Stamford
The UK has sanctioned over 2,000 individuals and entities under the Russia sanctions regulations, with over 1,700 targeted since Putin launched his renewed illegal invasion of Ukraine. Major progress has been made in cutting Russia off from global financial systems, restricting its military-industrial complex, reducing oil and gas revenues and banning items with dual military use from export to Russia.
Gordon McKee
Lab
Glasgow South
Tightening economic sanctions on Russia is one of the most fundamental ways that we can help to support the people of Ukraine in their fight for democracy. Russian semiconductor technology remains around 15 years behind that of NATO allies, but by avoiding sanctions, it is able to overcome that problem. Today’s move to ban shadow tankers and sanction those who operate them is the right decision.
Richard Foord
Lib Dem
Honiton and Sidmouth
Proceeds from oil and gas sales within Russia’s federal budget rose by 41% in the first half of 2024. That matters, of course, because Russia is using that money for its grossly illegal aggression in Ukraine. It is thought that those oil and gas sales account for between a third and a half of the total Russian federal budget.
Josh Simons
Lab
Makerfield
The speaker highlighted the industrial heritage of Makerfield, emphasising the role of coal mining in powering Britain's industrial revolution. He advocated for justice for former miners through a fair pension scheme and criticised 14 years of austerity under the Conservative government. Simons also praised local community organisations and their efforts to uplift the community spirit. The speech concluded with a focus on technology that benefits working people and the importance of childcare reform.
Stephen Gethins
SNP
Arbroath and Broughty Ferry
Congratulated the new Member for Makerfield on his maiden speech, expressed support for the Government’s move on sanctions but raised specific questions about European security, financial regulations regarding shell companies, and arms exports to secondary countries. Emphasised cross-party collaboration and the importance of working with European partners.
Tim Roca
Lab
Macclesfield
Congratulated his predecessor for public service and expressed gratitude towards House staff. Highlighted local history, cultural significance, and economic contributions of Macclesfield constituency. Raised concerns about climate emergency, electoral reform, cost-of-living crisis, inequality, global conflicts, and low trust in politicians.
Rupert Lowe
Ind
Great Yarmouth
Mr Rupert Lowe discussed the unique charm and community spirit of Great Yarmouth, highlighting issues such as coastal erosion in Hemsby, the impact of EU membership on fishing industries, and concerns over uncontrolled immigration. He emphasised the importance of reporting crime accurately and called for a reduction in immigration numbers. Mr Lowe also criticised the political system for being out of touch with the real economy's challenges and pledged to work towards changing politics.
Hamish Falconer
Lab
Lincoln
Welcomed contributions and maiden speeches, thanked the shadow Minister for kind words, addressed points raised about Russian sanctions involving China and India, mentioned tragic deportations of Ukrainian children, acknowledged concerns over circumvention risks in various countries, and urged support for the motion.
Stephen Gethins
SNP
Arbroath and Broughty Ferry
Asked the Minister to respond in writing regarding Scottish limited partnerships being a Westminster reserved issue rather than a matter for the Scottish Parliament.
Government Response
Responded to points raised about Russian sanctions involving China and India, mentioned tragic deportations of Ukrainian children, acknowledged concerns over circumvention risks in various countries, and urged support for the motion.
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