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Exiting the European Union (Sanctions)
03 February 2021
Lead MP
James Cleverly
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EconomyNorthern IrelandBrexitForeign Affairs
Other Contributors: 6
At a Glance
James Cleverly raised concerns about exiting the european union (sanctions) 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
Moves to approve the Bosnia and Herzegovina (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, urging the House to consider related regulations concerning sanctions against other nations such as Burundi, Guinea, Nicaragua, among others.
Moves several motions for approval regarding various sanctions (EU Exit) Regulations involving countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burundi, Cyber-related issues, Guinea, Misappropriation, Nicaragua, Miscellaneous Amendments, and Unauthorised Drilling Activities.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
Questions the Government's ability to take robust action against China in the form of sanctions post-Brexit due to the treatment of Uyghurs, expressing hope for immediate and decisive measures from the UK.
Stephen Doughty
Lab Co-op
Cardiff South and Penarth
The Opposition welcome these instruments to roll over the European Union sanctions regimes into UK legislation, aiming for a global Britain focused on human rights, rule of law, and democracy. The Labour Party supports a stronger UK sanctions regime to ensure those who abuse human rights have no safe haven in the UK or its territories. Doughty questions whether there were loopholes during the transition period and seeks clarification on the progress made since 2014 concerning Guinea's violence and sanctions impact. He also urges for clarity regarding individual designations under the Dayton agreement framework for Bosnia, and calls for robust actions against cyber-attacks from China and Russia. Doughty raises concerns about Magnitsky-style sanctions against Chinese officials involved in human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, urging the government to impose sanctions on Myanmar’s military and individuals responsible for violence against protesters in Uganda and Ethiopia.
Alyn Smith
SNP
Hillsborough and Shettleston
Welcomes the measures being rolled over. Emphasises importance of multilateral action with European allies, regrets leaving EU, and believes UK is stronger working together.
Layla Moran
Lib Dem
Oxford West and Abingdon
Supports sanctions but calls for faster action. Questions effectiveness in Burundi and Guinea, emphasising need to measure impact over time. Reiterates importance of sovereignty in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Nicaragua.
James Cleverly
Con
Braintree
Acknowledges broad consensus on sanctions. Highlights UK’s independence in adopting these measures post-Brexit, stressing its commitment to promoting peace and stability around the world.
Government Response
Responds positively to interventions from Jim Shannon (DUP) regarding Northern Ireland terrorism issues, sanctions impact on human rights, input from independent organisations, and China's involvement in Myanmar coup. Also addresses the role of UK-based companies.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.