DUMFRIESSHIRE MP David Mundell has highlighted the ‘enormous contribution’ of support to Ukraine provided by Ukrainians living in the UK and others with long-standing family links to the war-torn country.
During a Commons debate last week, the MP described ongoing efforts, often supported by the wider public, particularly in this area.
Mr Mundell, a past visitor to Ukraine through the Thornhill-based mine clearance charity HALO Trust, asked Anneliese Dodds, new Development Minister at the Foreign Office, to formally acknowledge the vital work done by the Ukrainian diaspora in the UK.
In reply, Ms Dodds said: “Just about every Member of the House will have had the privilege and honour of meeting Ukrainians who have moved to their constituency — sadly, not through choice but through necessity.
“They have enriched our communities, and they are indeed supporting those back at home.
“It really is important that the Government continue to work with them so that we get an accurate picture of what is taking place, but also so that we can ensure that we play our part in supporting Ukraine in its self-defence against Putin’s aggression.”
Meanwhile, on Saturday, David Mundell, accompanied by his MSP son Oliver, made one of their regular visits to the Ukrainian Chapel at Hallmuir, Lockerbie – pictured above.
They met volunteers Mary MacRae and Ellen Denner, both from Annan, and praised the improvement work carried out at the chapel and neighbouring former PoW barrack hut, now a heritage hub and meeting facility.
David said: “The Ukrainian chapel and the story behind it have been familiar to many local people for generations but a new chapter has now begun. It is not only a focal point for local families with Ukrainian heritage, but is an equally special place for those from Ukraine currently living and working in our area following Russia’s illegal and brutal attack on their homeland.”
