The readiness of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to send troops to Ukraine has sparked debates in London—some lawmakers are calling for a parliamentary vote, while others argue against tying the Prime Minister's hands.
According to Politico, MPs from major parties believe that Parliament should be involved in making any decisions regarding this matter. Labour MP Graham Stringer reminded everyone of British interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan, stating that he now wants to hear compelling arguments.
Left-wing Labour MP Diane Abbott asserted that if troops need to be deployed, Parliament should be the first to vote on it. MP Clive Lewis believes that parliamentary discussions will help gain public support on this issue:
"During a crisis, we all want strong leaders. But strength and wisdom are not a zero-sum game—true leadership requires both. Involving Parliament in this decision demonstrates both qualities. This course of action could place British troops at risk against a nuclear power without US support. It requires deeper and broader debates."
Opposition party MPs in Westminster are also demanding a vote. Defence spokesperson for the centrist opposition party, the Liberal Democrats, Helen Maguire, stated that they support Starmer's proposals regarding Ukraine; however, Parliament must have a say in matters of military deployment.
According to Conservative MP John Whittingdale, lawmakers expect Parliament to discuss and possibly vote on the Prime Minister's proposal. Conservative representative Mark Garnier also advocated for a vote, even though Prime Ministers can deploy troops without parliamentary approval.
Two other Conservative MPs, John Cooper and Neil Shastri-Hurst, stated that keeping Parliament informed is "vital" to maintain a united front on Ukraine.
The Prime Minister's representative, Starmer, indicated in comments to reporters that a parliamentary vote is not off the table, but urged against jumping ahead.
What is known about sending UK troops to Ukraine
As reported by UNIAN, on the eve of a summit of European leaders convened by French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, the British Prime Minister announced his readiness to send British troops to Ukraine.
This involves the deployment of a military contingent that will facilitate the implementation of a potential peace agreement.
It is noteworthy that this is the first instance in which the British Prime Minister has explicitly stated readiness to place peacekeeping troops in Ukraine.