Written questions

Defence

Lords · Question HL6260 · Tabled 27 Mar 2025 · Ministry of Defence · Official record

Answered 8 Apr 2025

Question

Asked by Lord Roberts of Llandudno

To ask His Majesty's Government how they define the difference between the right to defend and an offensive action by a state.

Answer

Answered by Lord Coaker, 8 Apr 2025

As recognised in Article 51 of the UN Charter, States have the inherent right of individual or collective self-defence against armed attack. Self-defence permits States to use necessary and proportionate force to repel such armed attacks. States’ uses of ...