HL Deb 28 July 1999 vol 604 cc192-3WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are examining how to ensure that military action entered into: (a) to prevent humanitarian catastrophe; (b) to counter proliferation; or (c) to defeat the common interests and values of NATO members; are always (i) lawful and (ii) generally accepted as lawful, and, if not, are not entered into. [HL3757]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

Any military action undertaken by the Government will be in accordance with international law.

Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether there is any generally recognised customary law permitting military action: (a) to prevent humanitarian catastrophe; (b) to counter proliferation; or (c) to defend the common interests and values of NATO members; and, if so, what. [HL3758]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

Whether the use of military action is justifiable under international law must be considered on a case by case basis in the light of the circumstances at the time.