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Situation in the Red Sea
24 January 2024
Lead MP
Grant Shapps
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EconomyForeign Affairs
Other Contributors: 44
At a Glance
Grant Shapps raised concerns about situation in the red sea in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
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 situation in the Red Sea is increasingly dangerous due to attacks by Houthi proxies supported by Iran. These attacks are threatening global trade, with over $1 trillion worth of goods passing through annually and significant delays and cost increases for shipping. The UK has taken military action in self-defence, including precision strikes on facilities used by the Houthis to launch drones and missiles. Additionally, diplomatic efforts are underway to reduce regional tensions and cut off financial support to the Houthi militia.
Bob Seely
Con
Isle of Wight
Concerned about Iran's use of proxy forces in multiple countries, including Yemen, Iraq, Lebanon, and Palestinian territories. Questions if we are monitoring these forces effectively.
Anthony Mangnall
Con
Bury North
Points out the need for increased military convoys to restore confidence in shipping through the Red Sea due to recent attacks leading to a significant drop in vessel transits.
Mark Francois
Con
Rayleigh and Wickford
Supports government action but emphasises the importance of addressing personnel retention issues within the armed forces, given current recruitment challenges.
Alicia Kearns
Con
Rutland and Stamford
Acknowledges the necessity of degrading Houthi capabilities to change their intent but seeks clarity on our understanding of both Houthi and Iranian motivations, as well as the effectiveness of current measures.
John Healey
Lab
Rawmarsh and Conisbrough
The debate's focus on the Red Sea is welcomed. The Labour Party emphasises the importance of debating broader aspects of defence, particularly regarding Ukraine. There has not been a general debate on defence since the Defence Secretary took office, nor a debate on Ukraine for four months, which should be addressed given its significance. John Healey also advocates for a wider discussion on Israel and Palestine.
Advocates for regular Government-led debates on defence during Government time instead of relying solely on the Backbench Business Committee. Suggests that such debates should take place regularly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays to maintain their importance and relevance.
Andrew Slaughter
Lab
Hammersmith and Chiswick
Points out the lack of debate since 7 October regarding Israel and Palestine, highlighting its significance. Suggests that this topic should be a priority for future debates alongside discussions on the Red Sea.
Reaffirms support for Ukraine in light of global political changes, particularly concerning North America's stance towards Europe and allies. Emphasises the necessity to communicate strong support for Ukraine amidst ongoing aggression from Russia.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Questions about the importance of maintaining UK amphibious assault ships in light of current operations against piracy, indicating their critical role in combined military operations.
Alicia Kearns
Con
Rutland and Stamford
The speaker argues against the portrayal of Houthis as freedom fighters, emphasising their violent history and human rights abuses. She outlines strategic reasons for the UK's recent airstrikes, citing international security concerns and protection of global trade routes.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Wetherby and Easingwold
Intervenes to highlight Houthis' deliberate blockage of humanitarian aid as a tactic to starve the population, contrasting this with their false narrative of support for Palestinian rights.
Emphasises the broader strategic challenges and threats posed by Iran's proxies across multiple regions, highlighting the need for a comprehensive assessment and response from international partners to address these multi-faceted security concerns.
Martin Docherty
SNP
West Dunbartonshire
The hon. Member for West Dunbartonshire criticises the Government's lack of action in relation to rhetoric on defence and security, highlighting the mismatch between what is said and done. He expresses frustration at western indifference towards the Middle East and a potential long-term commitment without clear strategic thinking. Martin Docherty also questions the effectiveness of recent military interventions, such as the strikes against Houthi targets, and criticises the financial state of the Ministry of Defence (MOD). He raises concerns about the UK's global strategy, particularly its focus on the Indo-Pacific region and the lack of clarity in communication to both Members of Parliament and the public. Additionally, he emphasises the manpower and retention crisis within the Royal Navy.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Wetherby
In an intervention, the hon. Member for Wetherby questions Martin Docherty's assertion that western nations have not been involved in the region until recently, pointing out previous efforts by the Royal Navy to protect shipping from Somali pirates and its current presence in Bahrain.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
In an intervention, the right hon. Member for New Forest East argues that maintaining higher defence spending during peacetime is more cost-effective than drastically increasing it during wartime, advocating for sustained investment to prevent conflicts.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Wetherby and Easingwold
Critiques the approach taken by the Member for West Dunbartonshire towards defence spending, arguing that investment in maritime security is crucial for global stability and economic resilience. Emphasises the importance of naval capabilities in maintaining open trade routes, particularly in the Red Sea, which affects food supplies globally. Raises concerns about Iran's influence on regional instability and its potential to disrupt international shipping, leading to increased demand for British military presence. Advocates for addressing financial constraints within the Ministry of Defence that hinder operational readiness.
Andrew Slaughter
Lab
Hammersmith and Chiswick
Emphasised the importance of freedom of navigation, maritime security, and upholding international law. Critiqued conflating actions in Yemen with those in Israel-Palestine, stressing that the motives of the Houthis are not humanitarian. Raised concerns about the Prime Minister's conditions for a ceasefire in Gaza, arguing they may be unrealistic. Highlighted the need to address war crimes in Gaza and called for international pressure on Israel. Discussed parallels between the crises in Gaza and Yemen, noting the impact of privation and disease. Called for aid and reconstruction efforts alongside better governance and support for civil society. Suggested that recognising a Palestinian state could be crucial for peace negotiations.
Layla Moran
Lib Dem
Oxford West and Abingdon
Responded to Andrew Slaughter's speech, emphasised the importance of morality over international law in addressing human misery. Urged for an immediate bilateral ceasefire to address humanitarian concerns.
Debbie Abrahams
Lab
Oldham East and Saddleworth
Brought up a debate on human rights in Westminster Hall, where the legality of Israel's actions since November 10th was questioned. Pressed for the publication of legal advice from Foreign Office advisers.
James Grey
Con
North Wiltshire
Congratulated the hon. Member for Hammersmith and the new Defence Secretary, supporting strikes in the Red Sea while criticising calls for parliamentary votes before military action. He argued that secret intelligence could be compromised by debates, NATO allies may have to wait on British decisions, politicisation of warfare is problematic, and past voting records showed poor outcomes. Emphasised scrutiny after actions rather than before them.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Agreed with the main thrust but argued that Syria case was a byword for wrong decision due to lack of intervention, leading to continued power of Assad. He noted there were pressures to vote given Iraq and Libya precedents.
Andrew Mitchell
Con
Sutton Coldfield
Agreed that intervening can be risky but also not intervening can lead to risks. Acknowledged complexity in decision-making processes regarding military actions.
Supported the view on voting, noting past mistakes in Libya and Syria led to weak western resolve; believed military action should have been taken over chemical weapons use.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Wetherby
Argued for immediate decision-making as a form of deterrence, citing NATO's continuous at-sea deterrence model.
Jeff Smith
Lab
Manchester Withington
Supports the targeted and limited strikes on Houthi military targets in Yemen. Rejects the Houthi claim that UK and US airstrikes are related to Gaza. Urges for a ceasefire in Gaza, release of hostages, and addressing the humanitarian crisis. Pays tribute to organisations doing humanitarian work in difficult conditions. Encourages the Government to press Israeli and Egyptian authorities to open crossings for aid and evacuation. Condemns Houthi attacks on shipping and declares an interest as his nephew is training as a commercial nautical engineer with Maersk.
Liam Fox
Con
Wealden
Paid tribute to armed forces personnel involved in the Red Sea, highlighted interconnectivity between Middle East tensions and the Abraham Accords brokered by the Trump Administration. Emphasised Iran's opposition to peace and its support for proxies such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and Houthis. Stressed the economic importance of the Bab al-Mandab strait and the need to address Iran's role in global security threats. Questioned why the IRGC is not proscribed despite clear evidence of dangerous activities against Britain’s national interests.
Layla Moran
Lib Dem
Oxford West and Abingdon
Moran emphasises the need for a two-state solution and Arab-led peace in the Middle East, criticising Iran's role in stirring chaos. She highlights the importance of involving Palestinians at the heart of any peace initiative, stressing that regional instability has long been detrimental to both Israelis and Palestinians. Moran argues that prolonged conflict without humanitarian focus pushes ordinary people towards extremist viewpoints, urging for an immediate bilateral ceasefire to bring dialogue back to a centrist position.
Flick Drummond
Con
Taunton Deane
Expressed gratitude towards UK personnel operating in the eastern Mediterranean and east of Suez, highlighting the historical significance of Yemen for British trade. Critiqued the Houthis' actions and their linkage to the situation in Gaza, urging caution against proscribing Ansar Allah due to humanitarian concerns. Emphasised the need for diplomatic efforts to maintain the ceasefire and warned about the potential consequences of a prolonged series of strikes on the Yemeni people. Stressed the importance of not imposing sanctions that would hinder humanitarian access and acknowledged the UK's leadership in aid provision.
Ian Blackford
SNP
Ross, Skye and Lochaber
We need to defend international shipping against threats from the Houthis, recognise the humanitarian crisis in Sudan and Yemen, and address wider security concerns. The UK should act with allies, including through the United Nations, to prevent escalation into a broader conflict. It is crucial to challenge regional instability and promote peace between Israelis and Palestinians by recognising Palestinian rights and seeking a two-state solution. Addressing UN Security Council paralysis due to veto powers from permanent members is necessary for effective international cooperation. The UK should provide leadership in collaboration with NATO allies, especially supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, to maintain European stability and protect democratic values worldwide.
Bob Seely
Con
Isle of Wight
Mr Seely emphasised the growing danger in global politics, particularly the conflict between open and closed societies. He noted Russia's aggression towards Ukraine and China’s territorial expansion, as well as Iran's increasing influence through proxies such as Hamas and Hezbollah. Mr Seely highlighted a concerning rise in sexual violence during conflicts, linked to proxy warfare. He also discussed the potential instability of Iran and its capability for nuclear armament. The speech concluded with a call for greater strategic thinking and deterrence.
Hayes and Harlington
Mr. McDonnell argued for the necessity of a vote on military decisions, emphasising that no more significant decision can be made than sending someone to where they could lose their life. He also mentioned the need for debate concerning the International Court of Justice's interim decision and called for creative solutions before further conflict.
Richard Drax
Con
Mr. Drax strongly supported the Government’s move and strikes in the Red Sea, highlighting the current state of the Royal Navy with only 18 frigates and destroyers available for deployment. He expressed concern about the readiness of Britain's armed forces to fight a sustained conflict and questioned why more modern assets were not being utilized in operations.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
Undoubtedly, it is our duty to protect freedom of navigation not only for our own self-interest, but to defend a core tenet of international law. First, we must recognise the limitations of our short-term interventions and remain focused on a long-term peaceful solution to the civil war in Yemen. Secondly, we must build durable and lasting coalitions to maintain freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and beyond. Despite extensive aerial bombardment by the Saudis and Emiratis, the Houthis have continued to make territorial gains and import sophisticated weapons. Peace offers the clearest long-term solution; however, recent events have derailed peace efforts. Iran has much to gain from escalating conflict. We should engage more closely with partners in the UN, EU, and regional allies. A coalition with greater regional involvement would undercut Houthi claims and create broader international norms against attacking non-military shipping. The UK must utilise its influence in Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Cairo to push these countries into joining efforts. Additionally, we must engage European partners who share an interest in free global trade.
I rise to take a minority view given the views of Members from all parties. This is not an insignificant view within the wider country. We condemn Houthi actions but oppose escalation in an area already a tinderbox, seeking instead a push for peace. The situation has endured 10 years of bombing by Saudi Arabia, armed with US and UK munitions, yet the Houthis continue to cause harm and destruction. This is an escalation against one of the poorest countries in the world. Surface-to-air missiles do not logically relate to Houthi attacks on shipping; they appear more related to defending vested interests. We face a legacy of hatred if we escalate further, especially considering the connection to what is happening in Gaza. The root issue lies in conflict resolution and protecting rights, including women and children in Gaza. We must not rush towards escalation but push for peace and support international law on all fronts.
Richard Foord
Lib Dem
Honiton and Sidmouth
Foord argues that while the Government's actions in the Red Sea were limited, necessary, and proportionate, there should be a vote associated with such debates. He highlights the importance of parliamentary approval for military action both retrospectively and in scenarios where operational security is not an issue. Foord emphasises the need to rebuild public trust after past missteps regarding military engagements, advocating for clear communication from the Government to both MPs and constituents on why military actions are necessary.
James Grey
Con
North Wiltshire
Grey intervenes to argue against retrospective votes, suggesting that if a vote is held after an action has taken place, it becomes impractical to address the outcome of such a vote. He also asserts that voting for military action would prevent proper scrutiny and criticism thereafter.
Wayne David
Lab
Caerphilly
Emphasised the importance of accountability for military action, supporting targeted airstrikes to protect international commerce. He noted that the Houthis' actions harm Yemen and other countries along the Red Sea and called for a wider political strategy.
Andrew Mitchell
Con
Sutton Coldfield
Acknowledged the support from Labour but responded to calls for further debate on defence. He confirmed that neither of the landing platform docks, HMS Albion and Bulwark, will be scrapped. He also defended the legality and necessity of military strikes against the Houthis.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Asked for confirmation on the future of HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark, emphasising that they should not be scrapped or mothballed ahead of their planned out-of-service dates.
Sought assurance from the Minister about additional platforms being sent to the region for deterrence purposes and ensuring safe passage for British shipping.
Asked about the change in vessel registrations through the Red Sea, particularly those changing to Chinese registration. Requested an update on how many vessels are changing their registration and whether Chinese-registered vessels have been targeted.
Inquired why Iran Air continues to fly from Heathrow and why Iranian banks continue trading in the City of London, questioning these practices given current proscription issues against Iran.
Richard Foord
Lib Dem
Honiton and Sidmouth
Asked about the situation regarding retrospective approval.
Inquired why aircraft carriers are not being used in the Red Sea.
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