Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The UK has been considering increasing economic pressure on Russia through sanctions. Recent events highlight the need for international cooperation.
What recent discussions she has had with international partners on the potential merits of increasing sanctions against Russia?
We are committed to increasing the economic pressure on Russia by disrupting the revenue the Kremlin generates from Russia's energy trade, including oil. The Prime Minister has today announced further sanctions, designating and specifying 70 individuals, entities and ships under the UK's sanctions regulations.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific discussions with international partners were not detailed
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The UK has implemented new powers allowing military interdictions of vessels linked to Russia. However, there have been no actual interceptions yet.
What is the Department doing with the Ministry of Defence and international partners to ensure that this is a sustained approach, rather than a one-off?
The hon. Gentleman will understand that I am not going to comment on future operational matters. We have assisted in the interdictions of other vessels, including by working with the French and the United States in relation to the Bella 1.
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Assessment & feedback
Refused to provide details about sustained approach
Will Not Comment On Future Operational Matters
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Government has announced a temporary waiver allowing imports of Russian oil via third countries, which the questioner views as undermining support for Ukraine.
I ask the Foreign Secretary to reverse course on this indefinite waiver and close any loopholes putting any money into Putin's war machine.
First, it was never an indefinite waiver; we said that we were keeping it under two-weekly review. Yesterday in the House, we set clear end dates for those temporary licences, which are to phase in these measures. Of course, these are new measures—we were never watering down previous sanctions; these are toughening the sanctions on Russia.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to reversing the waiver or closing loopholes
It Was Never An Indefinite Waiver
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The sanctioned oil and gas from Russia are often used by companies in China and Turkey to manufacture products, which are then sold in the UK. This distorts domestic manufacturing.
What evidence is the Department sharing with the Department for Business and Trade so that it can put in place the trade remedies necessary?
My hon. Friend raises an important issue. I would be happy to discuss it further with him, as, I am sure, would colleagues from the Department for Business and Trade.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific evidence or actions being taken
Would Be Happy To Discuss
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The Government has announced further sanctions but is considering a ban on Russian-originated diesel and jet fuel imports until 2027, despite the urgency of supporting Ukraine.
Does the Minister think that the situation can wait until 2027 for the introduction of the ban on Russian-originated diesel and jet fuel imports?
The shadow Minister asks an important question. I made it clear in yesterday's Delegated Legislation Committee that that is the end date, but we are keeping it under review every two weeks and the licence could end before then, with the appropriate notice in place for industry.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to a sooner ban than 2027
Reviewing Every Two Weeks
Response accuracy