Taiwan

Lord Robathan Excerpts

Wednesday 4th March 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Lemos (Lab)]

I thank the noble Lord for all his work on Taiwan over many years. I used to share an office with him; it was full of Taiwan memorabilia, so I can attest to his commitment. On a serious point, I entirely endorse his remarks about the work of the office and our people there. Obviously, noble Lords know that this is a sensitive and serious subject, and I need to choose my words with care, but I reassure your Lordships’ House that this is a relationship that we take very seriously. It is very important to us in trade terms, and for the reasons I have already given in relation to strategic concerns about security and semiconductors. We would not want anything to happen to harm it, so we will continue to support the noble Lord in his work as trade envoy and FCDO colleagues in Taiwan.

[Lord Robathan (Con)]

My Lords, is it not the case that Taiwan is very much threatened by China? Could the Minister please tell the House what actions the Government are taking to produce some hardware there that can protect Taiwan in any way?

[Lord Lemos (Lab)]

As I said, the Government will always put national security first. We are taking seriously any risks to Taiwan and to the status quo. However, I do not think the noble Lord would expect me to comment specifically on China and its attitudes; that is a matter for the Chinese Government. As I have said, we do not want to see any unilateral change in the current situation.