Andy Burnham MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Secretary, responding in the House of Commons to the publication of the report into the death of Alexander Litvinenko, said:
“This is one of the most shocking and disturbing reports ever presented to this Parliament. It confirms that the Russian state at its highest level sanctioned the killing of a British citizen on the streets of our Capital city. An unparalleled act of state-sponsored terrorism that must meet with a commensurate response.
“I welcome what the Home Secretary has said today about Interpol notices, European Arrest Warrants and her announcement about asset-freezes. Given that these two individuals are reported to be travelling, will she directly approach all EU, NATO and Commonwealth allies asking for immediate cooperation on extradition?
“The Home Secretary has indicated today that there will be new diplomatic pressure, and I welcome it, but I am not sure it goes far enough.
“On diplomacy, is there a case for recalling the Ambassador for consultation and making any changes to the Russian Embassy here in London? Given the proven FSB involvement, will the Government consider expelling all FSB officers from Britain? More broadly, can the Home Secretary say whether the Prime Minister has ever raised this case directly with Vladimir Putin and can I ask whether is seeking an urgent conversation with him today about the findings of this report?
“On Parliamentary matters, it beggars belief that one of the suspected murderers is today a leading member of the Duma. What is the correct level of partnership for this Parliament to have with its Russian counterpart?
“On cultural collaboration, given what this reports reveals about the Russian Government and its links to organised crime, and given what we know about corruption within FIFA, isn’t there a growing case for this country to engage with others in a debate about whether the 2018 World Cup should go ahead in Russia?
“On the economy, is the Government satisfied that the current EU sanctions against Russia are adequate and is there a case to strengthen them?
“It should be considerations of justice rather than diplomacy that lead the Government’s response. There can be no sense the Government may pull its punches because of wider diplomatic considerations. If we were to do that, wouldn’t that send a terrible message to the world that Britain is prepared to tolerate outrageous acts of state violence on its soil and appease those who sanctioned them?
“Litvinenko believed in Britain, in its tradition of justice, fairness, standing up to the mighty and for what is right. Shouldn’t we now find the courage to show his son and the world that his father’s faith in us was not misplaced?