Metals are Russia’s biggest export after oil and gas. The UK Government is leading on efforts to restrict imports to the UK of Russian metals, delivering on G7 commitments.

In December last year, we introduced further restrictions on several base metals, including copper, aluminium, and nickel. These added to existing sanctions on products including iron and steel.

The UK Government does not comment on future sanctions policy as to do so could reduce its impact. We will continue to apply pressure against Putin and his regime, until Ukraine prevails or Putin ends his war of choice.

The invasion of Ukraine has created uncertainty in the global economy. The sanctions and strong response by the UK and its allies are vital in supporting the Ukrainian people, but these decisions will inevitably have an impact on the supply of goods, both in the UK and in other economies.

We have been in close contact with the UK aerospace sector to understand the implications of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia on the supply of metals, and their timelines for finding alternative sources where needed. We are aware of the sector’s priorities and are looking to work with them whilst, at the same time, ensure HM Government’s policy stance reflects the unacceptability of Russia’s action towards Ukraine.

The resilience of critical supply chains is a priority for the Government. The UK benefits from an open international trading system and our priority is to work with allies and international partners, including Japan, to promote it.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has not been involved in any recent discussions about the use of titanium implants to enable people who are paralysed by injury to regain their mobility.