Letter to the editor

19th March 2011


Sir,

The Liberal Party welcomes the recent UN Resolution to allow military intervention to protect civilians in Libya.

It is welcome because it is a measured response to protect lives which has the backing of the international community (including the Arab League) and is authorised by the United Nations. A distinct advance on the bad old days of Bush and Blair embarking upon illegal wars to force regime change.

Having said that, we are extremely concerned that after another round of swingeing defence cuts, our armed forces are being asked to take on yet more responsibilities. The Libyan crisis has shown that we have an urgent need for flexible and rapidly deployable air power. It has also shown what a dangerous and unpredictable world in which we live. For both or these reasons the Liberal Party would beg the Government to reconsider its proposed defence cuts and at the very least re-commission HMS Ark Royal and her Harriers immediately. They are both badly needed.

Yours faithfully

Daniel Wood
Chair of the Policy Committee
The Liberal Party