Extracts from Lords motion to approve the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) (Amendment) (No. 11) Regulations 2022 - Oct 12

Lord Collins of Highbury (Lab):...I hope that the Minister will tonight be able to perhaps put a bit more meat on this and give us a more detailed response about our capability and capacity. In fact, let me put that a different way. I have full support for the staff in the FCDO—I think we have got some of the best experts, and I certainly admire their commitment and dedication—but capacity is going to be a critical issue that we need to address. What extra financial resources have been given to those bodies? What conversations has the Minister had with the National Crime Agency to ensure the proper enforcement against those who breach the sanctions regime?

The Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon) (Con):...The noble Lord, Lord Collins, raised the NCA. The former Prime Minister confirmed that we will set up a dedicated cell in the National Crime Agency for these purposes. I will get an update for the noble Lord on the specific operation of that unit. I know that is an issue that he has raised on number of occasions. There is undoubtedly a lot of work being done in this respect...

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