These Houthi attacks must stop. They are designed to destabilise us, bring danger to ordinary civilians working hard at sea, and disrupt the flow of goods, food and medicines. The Houthis are an extreme organisation which has not only harmed Yemenis, but whose attacks have terrible consequences for countries which rely on the Red Sea.

I accept the airstrikes so far have been justified. I support the proportionate action taken by the UK and the US, with the international community acting together to condemn the Houthi actions, uphold international law and reinforce maritime security in the Red Sea. I understand the attacks so far have been targeted, necessary and devised to minimise the risk to civilian life. The UK Government states it is not aware of any civilian casualties.

However, the Government must show how these airstrikes have been effective in reducing Houthi capabilities, and how the Government will guard against escalation risks. I will judge any future UK military action on its merits.

I believe that while military strikes can reduce the immediate threat to navigation, there must also be a wider political and diplomatic strategy to counter the Houthi threat.

The people of Yemen have experienced horrific suffering with the terrible civil war and appalling humanitarian crisis that unfolded as a result. I want the UK Government to provide further assistance to the people of Yemen.