MPs demand robust UK response to attempted Iranian attacks on bases

MPs have pressed the government over the UK's response to attempted Iranian attacks on British bases, in a Commons exchange that also touched on energy prices and the Strait of Hormuz.

Sir Oliver Dowden told the House that Iran clearly views Britain as its enemy and warned that 'they smell weakness'. He said Iran had attempted to attack Diego, Akrotiri and now Fairford. He asked the Prime Minister to agree that this demands a robust response.

Dowden also sought a commitment that, if Iran succeeded in attacking a UK base, Britain would use direct action against Iran in legitimate self-defence. He called for enhanced support and assistance for allies under constant attack from Iran and its proxies, naming Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Israel.

The Prime Minister replied that the government is providing the most robust response to the situation. He said the UK has introduced a tough sanctions regime and is taking every step needed in close consultation with US counterparts. There was 'no suggestion at all that Britain is not playing its part', he said.

Earlier in the exchange, MPs raised concerns about energy costs and the role of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran. A questioner asked whether the Prime Minister would remind President Trump that the biggest reason for high diesel prices in the UK and the United States is what is going on in the Strait of Hormuz and in Iran, rather than the war between Russia and Ukraine, and that the action being taken would not cut diesel prices but would fuel the Russian war machine. The Prime Minister said the government was using its good offices on every front, that an energy ceasefire is the best way to get fuel flowing into the market and that it must be reciprocal. He said he had discussed both matters with President Trump in New York and that Britain stands ready to play its part on both fronts.