Keighley and Ilkley MP Robbie Moore has hosted the Foreign Secretary Liz Truss for a visit to his constituency, during which he invited Truss to meet with Friends for the Keighley Ukrainian Community.
The meeting, which involved the group’s chair Stefan Pryimuk, as well as local member Nick Lajsczuk, gave a chance to raise their concerns directly with those at the top of Government. This included the issues local people are facing in getting Ukrainian refugees into Keighley and Ilkley, including excess paperwork. However, the group could also provide positive news about how they have been helping those arriving to the area from Ukraine, and ensuring they have a positive welcome by local people.
There were also discussions on President Zelenskyy’s heroic leadership of Ukraine during the conflict, and how the Governments of the two countries have worked together over the past months. The issue of genocide was also discussed, with reports involving civilian murders, torture and rape suggesting that Putin’s actions have gone beyond war crimes. Moore has previously announced he will support any investigations into the matter.
The meeting reflected the support shown for the Ukrainian people at both a local and national level. Truss’ department has led the way internationally in support for Ukrainian, including by sending hundreds of thousands of pieces of equipment to the Ukrainian Army. Locally, groups such as the Keighley branch of the Association of Ukrainians have assembled huge amounts of donations for those fleeing Ukraine, as well as working to help those who are arriving in the United Kingdom.
Robbie Moore MP said: “It was a real privilege to be able to welcome the Foreign Secretary to Keighley and Ilkley. Whilst I have the chance to raise my constituents’ concerns with ministers such as the Foreign Secretary on a regular basis, it is so important for local people to be able to hold these discussions as well.
We spoke about the UK’s strong military and humanitarian response, and how this can be further enhanced over coming weeks. We also spoke about the clear evidence of Russia committing war crimes and how at an international level, through a UN, a recognition of genocide of the Ukrainian people should be recognised. The Foreign Secretary was resolute in her determination to ensure the UK government is taking the lead on the international stage in supporting Ukraine.
I have been proud of the UK’s response to Russia’s invasion, and this meeting was a great opportunity for the Secretary of State to listen and hear all of our ongoing concerns, but also to talk through how local and national leaders have worked together to show our unwavering support for the people of Ukraine. As your local MP, I will always make sure Government Ministers hear your concerns directly.”
Nick Lajsczuk of the Keighley Association of Ukrainians said: “The Keighley Ukrainian community were pleased to express their views regarding the genocide of Ukrainians and the current situation in Ukraine to one of the highest ministers on government. Where Britain is one of the leading countries given both practical and moral support to Ukraine. Although the visa arrangements and the handling of refugees wanting to come to Britain does need improvement. European popular behind support was shown by Ukraine winning the Eurovision song contest.”
