M623 - Motion on the Defence of Taiwan

This House Recognises:

1. That China aims to invade Taiwan by 2030
2. In recent days, China has launched the largest invasion of Taiwanese airspace to date, including nuclear capable bombers.
3. The Taiwanese Defence Minister believes the PLA will be capable of launching an invasion by 2025
4. For peace and stability in South East Asia and worldwide, Taiwan must not be invaded by China

This House therefore urges:

1. The government to commit to the defence of Taiwan in the event an invasion takes place
2. Work with other inclined nations to ensure that any invasion of Taiwan is seen as futile
3. Work with international organisations such as the CfF and NATO to ensure that any invasion of Taiwan is discouraged to the utmost degree

This Motion is submitted by the Rt. Hon. Sir u/Chi0121 KT KBE LVO, Leader of the Opposition, on behalf of the Official Opposition and is sponsored by Coalition! and the Liberal Democrats

Opening Speech:

This is a short and sweet motion. In light of the recent Chinese incursions into Taiwanese airspace and the rhetoric coming from Beijing it seems only logical to reaffirm our commitment to preserving the integrity and system of the democratic nation of Taiwan. While we do not wish to unnecessarily antagonise the People’s Republic of China we cannot allow it to move forward with plans to integrate a separate country into itself simply because it meets an ideological goal.

I am sure this debate will bring forward accusations of “anti-China” hysteria. This is not an overtly hostile motion against China. While it could’ve been, I instead aimed the focus on Taiwan and its preservation, not on anything which could pose a risk to people of China origin or SouthEast Asian origin. I hope they can appreciate this and find it within themselves to commit to the defence of Taiwan, much like the Defence Secretary did. I am not a fan of big opening speeches so let’s let the debate do the talking!

This division ends on the 30th October.

Link to debate can be found here