Debates between James Heappey and Diane Abbott during the 2019-2024 Parliament

Migrant Crossings: Role of the Military

Debate between James Heappey and Diane Abbott
Tuesday 18th January 2022

(2 years, 9 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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James Heappey Portrait James Heappey
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No, I do not think that is the case. There was a key difference with Op Sophia, and that is what happened when people landed on the European continent and what EU nations did with them thereafter.

Diane Abbott Portrait Ms Diane Abbott (Hackney North and Stoke Newington) (Lab)
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The Minister will be aware that in 2019 two Navy patrol vessels were deployed in the channel to deal with channel crossings. Yet they intercepted no boats and it cost the taxpayer £780,000. What will be different this time?

James Heappey Portrait James Heappey
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It is unclear whether the right hon. Lady is reading from Hansard because that is exactly the question asked by the Front-Bench spokesman, which I have answered already.