Mr Calvin Bailey

Mr Calvin Bailey

Labour — Leyton and Wanstead

Speaking in the House of Commons on 22 October 2026

Debate

Saudi Arabia: RAF Support

Contribution

There was a multiplicity of questions within that question. First, on why a statement on the deployment was not made, I have made it clear that the strategic parameters were set out by the Prime Minister and that the deployment was laid out by the Secretary of State. I am pleased to be here to talk about the extension of an existing deployment; this is not anything new. With regards to the word “defence”, the right hon. Gentleman, my neighbouring MP, as a gallant person with a significant military background, will understand that a layered air defence system is exactly that, and defensive counter air is a capability. We are not conducting strikes and there is no capability to conduct strikes. We are not seeking to present that in any other way.

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