Labour responds to Finland announcing its intention to apply for NATO membership

David Lammy MP and John Healey MP, Labour's Shadow Foreign Secretary and Shadow Defence Secretary, responding to Finland announcing its intention to apply for NATO membership, said:

“Finland’s sovereign decision to seek NATO membership is a historic step. They will be a welcome new member of this alliance of democracies that share values of freedom and the rule of law, and seek peace through collective security.

"Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine is a turning point for Europe. As we strengthen UK and European security, it is more important than ever to do so alongside our allies and Labour’s commitment to NATO is unshakeable.

"Putin has sought division but only strengthened Europe’s unity and NATO’s resolve. We stand together in defence of democracy and the rule of law.”