A Cumbrian MP has asked Parliament to assure politicians there would be time for them to scrutinise the UK’s response to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia.
Neil Hudson, who represents Penrith and the Border, spoke in a Commons debate today.
He asked the leader of the House of Commons, Mark Spencer: “Can he reassure colleagues that there will be sufficient Parliamentary time to look at the UK’s international actions and also, very importantly, our domestic resilience preparations?”
Mr Spencer replied: “Of course he will recognise that the Prime Minister will be here at 5pm.
“That will be his first opportunity to question that. I have not announced further business other than the debate on Ukraine on March 7 but I think the Government’s record of giving many opportunities this week to discuss this matter will be an indication of how we will proceed going forward.”
Dr Hudson, before he asked his question, said: “On this dark day for Ukraine, Europe and the world, can I join with colleagues across the House in expressing our solidarity with the people of Ukraine at this dreadful time and to condemn this abhorrent invasion by Russia.
“My thoughts and prayers especially go out to the civilians of Ukraine who face terrifying and awful choices as they try and protect their families.”
Afterwards, Dr Hudson said: “I was grateful for the opportunity to speak on behalf of the constituents of Penrith and the Border in support of the people of Ukraine who are facing such an abhorrent crisis.
“It was good to get an indication from the leader of the House that MPs will have a chance to debate next steps to combat Russian aggression and to feed into plans to protect UK domestic resilience which will face challenges moving forward.
“Worryingly this crisis will probably roll on and it is vital that MPs can properly scrutinise actions that the Government is taking. “I stand four square behind the people of Ukraine and it is good to see that the House is united against Russia’s invasion of a democratic sovereign nation in Europe.”
