Corbyn Accuses British Government Of "Colluding" In War Crimes

Jeremy Corbyn has accused the Government of "colluding" in war crimes by selling arms to Saudi Arabia.

The Labour leader said British military advisors are directing the war against Yemen, contributing to a humanitarian disaster there.

Prime Minister Theresa May, who is meeting Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince during his three-day visit to the UK, said she would raise "deep concerns" over the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.

It’s believed these talks could open up around £100bn of investment in the UK by Saudi Arabia, but that isn’t enough to quell anger here.

While the crown prince has been seen as a champion of social and economic reforms in his own country, some say he’s also responsible for preventing essential food, fuel and medicine supplies reaching civilians in war-torn Yemen.

Watch: Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson defends role British personnel play in mentoring and training Saudi military

In the commons, Jeremy Corbyn accused the British government of colluding in war crimes by selling arms to Saudi Arabia:

"Germany has suspended arms sales to Saudi Arabia but British arms sales have sharply increased and British military advisers are directing the war."

"It cannot be right that her Government is colluding in what the United Nations says is evidence of war crimes."

Mr Corbyn's spokesman told reporters: "British military advisers advise the Saudi military on targeting and so there is a direct involvement in the conduct of the war.

"British military personnel are in the operations room where these bombing campaigns are being conducted. They are advising directly on the targeting of infrastructure and operations in Yemen.

"The British Government is colluding with this military campaign and that includes the disastrous humanitarian effects of the aerial operations."

Theresa May says the ties between Britain and Saudi Arabia are historic, and an important relationship that has saved hundreds of lives:

"We have a long-standing relationship with Saudi Arabia in terms of supporting Saudi compliance with the international humanitarian law and in armed forces training."