On Saturday British forces were involved in action over Libya as the enforcement of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1973 began.
Firstly let me state that such decisions are never taken lightly. The decision to send our forces into action always brings with it the possibility of casualties. As a nation we should be proud that our military personnel are willing to put their own safety on the line to ensure the safety of others. These are the difficult choices which sometimes must be made by those willing to stand up for democracy and freedom. Make no mistake our forces are in action now to stop Gaddafi attacking his own people.
On Monday MPs debated the action being taken in Libya before voting on supporting the UN resolution. The grave seriousness of the issues being discussed was abundantly clear to all my colleagues and this was reflected in the sombre, but steadfast, mood in the Chamber. Both David Cameron and Ed Miliband were listened to with respect from all parts of the House. As might have been expected, the shadow of Iraq loomed large over the debate, and many members drew attention to significant difference between the action taken previously in Iraq and that currently being taken over Libya.
Firstly, the aim of the resolution is to protect the Libyan people and not to overthrow the Gaddafi regime. Also, whereas the action in Iraq was not mandated by the UN, leaving many to question its legitimacy, the action over Libya clearly has the widespread support of the international community. Two weeks ago David Cameron’s proposal of a no fly zone was met with some uncertainty, not least by our colleagues in Washington. It is a measure of his increasing authority on the world stage that leaders of other countries have come forward with their support. The coalition is broad and has the support of the Arab League which I think demonstrates the depth of feeling against the Gaddafi regime on all sides.
The Government has clearly stated that we shall abide by the terms of the UN resolution but that the resolution permits decisive action to protect the people of Libya. By suppressing Gaddafi’s air defences the plan is to ensure the safe enforcement of a no-fly zone and disabling his ground forces. However it is clear that there is no mandate for ground forces to invade or occupy Libya. As the Prime Minister stated on Monday a successful outcome is the enforcement of the will of the UN and this means ceasing attacks on civilians by the Gaddafi regime.
Our actions have saved lives and will continue to save many more in the days to come. As a free and democratic nation we are always reluctant to enter into military conflict but we also know when it is right and just to act. There is presently a widespread and sweeping demand for democratic change in the Middle East and this is something we should support at every opportunity. As Foreign Secretary, William Hague concluded, “...this country is doing what it said it would do, doing what is absolutely right and joining in giving a lead to the world”.