Understandably there has been a huge media focus this week on the Privileges Committee Report on Boris Johnson.
Since October, as one of my many different roles in the Cabinet Office, I have been the “Designated Minister” fulfilling the Government’s obligations on this issue to the House and Committee and therefore while following every part of the process closely recused myself from the final vote (more information on my website).
I am though relieved this has now concluded. The Commons voted decisively: a conclusion pre-empted by the former Prime Minister.
This is “Armed Forces Week” – there will be displays in Carfax on Sunday and it is a good opportunity to remind ourselves of the debt we owe to our service personnel.
Why they, and deterring conflict, are so critical came home to us all last year with Putin’s appalling invasion of Ukraine.
Few then would have imagined that nearly 18 months on not only is Ukraine still controlling the vast majority of their beautiful country but it is their heroic armed forces that are attempting to seize back control of occupied towns and villages.
We continue to stand with Ukraine alongside our allies and work together to supply vital weapons to their Armed Forces. Without our early support and the wide coalition that has come to their aid the situation in Ukraine – and as a result the message sent to aggressors everywhere – would have been very different.
The Prime Minister focused on redoubling support for Ukraine’s defence during the recent G7 summit, announcing new sanctions on Russian diamonds, metals and individuals and companies from Putin’s military-industrial complex.
While the counter-offensive may take months to culminate many Ukrainians living away from their homes, especially those with friends and relatives in the Armed Forces, will be even more concerned about events back home.
Thank you, once again, to the many families locally who opened their homes to Ukrainian guests and who continue to look after them. The Government’s recent announcement that £150 million will be made available to local authorities and devolved administrations this year to help support our Ukrainian guests to move into their own homes I hope will add practical assistance nationally and locally while recognising the difficulty of finding accommodation in our area.