Westminster Hall

Iran

Mark Pritchard: I think that history can act as a helpful lesson for today and for the future.

In conclusion, what is needed is not an American solution to the Iran question, or one from the international community, but an Iranian one. An Iranian and also—forgive me—Jacobean revolution is needed, where an internal counter-revolution is released to deal with the new revolutionaries who are undermining the old ones. There should also be a doubling of Russia’s efforts in persuading President Ahmadinejad to change course. I pay tribute to Russia today. I have been a critic of Russia many times in this House, but today I sing its praises. I shall conclude with a quote—

Mr. David Drew (Stroud) (Lab/Co-op): Will the hon. Gentleman give way?

Hon. Members: Oh no!

Mark Pritchard: No; I always give way briefly to other bird lovers.

Mr. Drew: I thank the hon. Gentleman and I will be very brief. Before he finishes, would he like to mention the role of the opposition in Iran and in particular the proscription of the People’s Mujaheddin Organisation of Iran, which I am sure will be mentioned later in the debate? That is a key issue.