RUSSIAN DISRUPTION OF EU ENERGY SUPPLY

Early day motion 745, tabled 25 January 2007 by Lord Bruce of Bennachie (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 33 members.

That this House notes with concern Russia's action in halting oil supplies through Belarus to the EU; agrees with Chancellor Merkel's comments that it is not acceptable to resort to such a policy, which destroys trust and erodes trust in building for the future; concludes that this dictates the need for caution in dealing with Russia as an energy supplier; and calls on the Government and European Commission to make clear that any bid by Gazprom, itself the subject of major international litigation, for Centrica British Gas will be prevented unless Gazprom can demonstrate its adherence to UK corporate governance standards, Russian capital markets are made fully open to overseas investment, free from political interference, and cast-iron supply assurances are given by Russia.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 15, Labour 13, Conservative 4, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.