Meeting of the Parliament 24 February 2026 [Draft]
I absolutely agree with that sentiment. Oddly enough, as I was sitting here earlier today thinking about the debate, the thought that was going through my mind was that this is unfolding in Ukraine right now, so we really have not learned the lessons of the terrible tragedy of 85 years ago.
As I prepare to step down from my role as minister for veterans, I find myself reflecting on what a privilege it has been to represent our armed forces and the veterans community. Commemorating the Clydebank blitz reminds me, as I think it should for all of us, that sacrifice during conflict is not solely the preserve of combatants and their families. Remarkable courage was shown in Clydebank in the face of profound loss and unimaginable hardship, and it is absolutely right and proper that we recognise that tonight.