Last week, local MP John Lamont, was asked by the Prime Minister to escort the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK during a visit to the House of Commons to attend Prime Minister’s Questions.
The ambassador received a rare standing ovation from MPs in moving scenes at the start of Prime Minister's Questions.
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle confirmed that Vadym Prystaiko was seated in the gallery above the chamber to watch the weekly clash.
MPs, journalists, guests, and officials stood up to applaud for nearly a minute in a show of solidarity.
Mr Prystaiko nodded in gratitude as MPs applauded. The ambassador was flanked by Deputy Speaker Dame Eleanor Laing and the Borders MP John Lamont.
John Lamont MP said:
“To be able to meet the Ukrainian ambassador whilst his country is fighting for its existence, was an immensely moving experience.
“I was in the House of Commons listening to Alok Sharma MP, President of COP26 talking about the support that Borders College had received from the UK Government when my phone started to buzz with messages from the Prime Minister’s office.
“The Ukrainian ambassador was about to arrive with the Prime Minister and they asked me to escort the ambassador to the gallery to watch Prime Minister’s Questions.
“I think we all share a sense of solidarity and sympathy for the people of Ukraine as the brutal military forces of Russian President Putin invade their country.
“I was therefore keen to convey my personal support but also that of everyone in the Borders to the ambassador when we met.
“It was a hugely emotional moment when the House of Commons erupted in applause after the Speaker announced that the ambassador was in the Commons.
“Although the people of Ukraine are enduring the brutality of Putin’s army every day, I know the ambassador drew comfort from the unity shown by the British Parliament. He will also know that the UK and her allies are putting in place the most severe economic sanctions on Russia.
“We are also sending finance, weapons and humanitarian assistance to the Ukrainian government.”
Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle added:
“We generally do not allow applause in this chamber but on this occasion the House quite rightly wants to demonstrate our respect and support for your country."
Photos by UK Parliament/Jess Taylor
