Military Conflicts: International Law

Lord Thomas of Gresford Excerpts

Tuesday 7th July 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Hermer (Lab)]

I thank the noble Lord for his question. I am not going to take up the time of your Lordships’ House trying to put in the correct context that which some newspapers put in the wrong context. There is a broader point that the noble Lord touched upon, which is the principle that underpins the independent Bar—of acting without fear or favour for your clients. The noble Lord is absolutely right. I did some cases against the British Armed Forces, but at the same time I did many for members of the British Armed Forces, including acting pro bono for members of the Armed Forces. What I can truly say in answer to the noble Lord’s question, and reflecting on two years as Attorney-General, is that one of the greatest privileges has been working day in, day out with our Armed Forces. The opportunity to see first-hand their extraordinary professionalism and immense bravery has been a true privilege.

[Lord Thomas of Gresford (LD)]

Would not an unprovoked attack by the US on Greenland amount to the international crime of aggression, contrary to Article 2(4) of the Charter of the United Nations? Will the Prime Minister remind the President of the United States at the NATO meeting in Ankara that he can never win by foul play?

[Lord Hermer (Lab)]

The Prime Minister has already made plain his views about US rhetoric in respect of Greenland, and he has also made plain this Government’s commitment to uphold international law at every turn.