Sir Keir Starmer has paid tribute to British veterans who fought in Iraq, after US Vice-President JD Vance was accused of disrespecting UK troops.
Without directly referring to Vance’s comments, Sir Keir opened Prime Minister’s Questions by remembering those who “died fighting for Britain alongside our allies”.
On Tuesday, Vance was criticised for saying a US stake in Ukraine’s economy was a “better security guarantee than 20,000 troops from some random country that hasn’t fought a war in 30 or 40 years”.
The UK and France have said they would be willing to put troops in Ukraine as part of a peace deal – although the vice-president later insisted he did not mention either country.
The prime minister told the Commons: “Tomorrow marks 13 years since six young British soldiers were on patrol in Afghanistan when their vehicle was struck by an explosive tragically killing them all.”
He added: “These men fought and died for their country, our country. And across the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, 642 individuals died fighting for Britain alongside our allies, many more were wounded.
“We will never forget their bravery and their sacrifice, and I know the whole House will join me in remembering them and all those who serve our country.”
Vance’s comments were later raised by Liberal Democrat MP Richard Foord, who suggested the vice-president should have more respect for those who lost their lives.
He asked the PM whether he would remind the US government the UK supported the country in Iraq following the 9/11 attacks.
In response, Sir Keir said: “He speaks for the whole house.
“We do remember the role we played historically with our allies and we particularly remember those that made the ultimate sacrifice in that duty for their country and for our allies and that’s why it’s so important that we make that point today.”
