Surprise revelation in 'Commons debate - Cardiff South's Labour MP, Stephen Doughty, once swam with penguins

                                         

Stephen Doughty - unusual ornithological experience

Extract from House of Commons debate on  Overseas Territories, May 11, 2023

Stephen Doughty (Labour, Cardiff South and Penarth)

Let me be clear that for as long as the people of the overseas territories wish to remain part of this British family, we will robustly defend their security, autonomy and rights. As has been rightly pointed out, that is not least in the case of the Falkland Islands and Gibraltar, where a firm commitment to self-determination has been expressed by their peoples. That is Labour’s commitment, and I know that it is shared by many across the House. We would also move away from the notion that one size fits all. It does not when it comes to the overseas territories.

We also want to see transparency in how the territories are administered. I believe that many overseas territories have called for a code of conduct for governors and for robust processes and consistency in how they operate.

James Sunderland (Conservative, Bracknell)

I had the unique experience of sharing an apartment with the hon. Member for Cardiff South and Penarth. I saw the hon. Member swimming with penguins. However, the point is a serious one. Having got to know him, I know that he is a clever guy and that he gets it. Will he please assure the House that Labour’s policy is to respect the military capabilities, military basing and military strategic imperative that we have in some of our overseas territories?

Stephen Doughty 

I absolutely assure the hon. Member of that.