Topical question asked in the House of Commons, by Robert Key (Conservative). It was answered on Tuesday, 6 April 2010 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Topical Questions

Question: The people of Estonia have held this country in particular regard ever since the intervention of the Royal Navy in their war of independence after the first world war. In fashioning the future foreign and defence policy of this country, will this Government and the next never forget the professionalism and sacrifice of Estonian forces fighting alongside British forces in Afghanistan and the professional and courageous military personnel who, on a tiny budget, show courage above all possible expectations?

Answer: I think that the hon. Gentleman is the last of the parliamentary swans making their swansong at questions this afternoon, but he is a very fine swan indeed. He has been a great Member of this House and I pay tribute to him and to the many other retiring sensible, pro-European Conservatives who still exist. The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right about Estonia and its contribution. Our troops, in Afghanistan now and in previous conflicts, have known perfectly well that the Estonians have been very strong and successful allies of ours.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 508 c816
Session: 2009-10
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Armed forces Estonia Peacekeeping operations Afghanistan Public expenditure Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Link: View this Topical question on www.publications.parliament.uk