Nadine Dorries’ monthly column: Open borders mean Libya is our problem

They are overwhelmingly supportive of the government’s action to implement and enforce the no-fly-zone.

But a small number ask the question: What has this got to do with us?

The question is a good one and my answer is, a great deal.

Due to the European Union’s laws on the free movement of people, to a great extent our border now begins where Europe ends.

Malta is a mere 200 miles from Tripoli, while Italy and Spain have already seen massive influxes of refugees from North Africa since the revolutions started in January.

This means that, even leaving aside the convincing moral arguments, there are direct national interest reasons for us ensuring that Libya returns to peace as soon as possible.

If the situation in Libya worsens and Gaddafi is allowed to continue to brutalise his own people, many Libyan citizens may head to our shores in search of asylum as Spain and Italy struggle to cope.

At first I was doubtful that military action was the best way of doing this, but the murderous actions of Colonel Gaddafi made it imperative.

I have been heartened to read of the role social networks have played in all the revolutions so far.

My heart goes out to those in Libya and Syria using blogs, Facebook and Twitter to spread news after government clampdowns on sources of free and fair information.

Despite my fears for them, as a blogger myself it is inspiring to see the medium put to such excellent use in propagating the ideals of freedom and democracy.

We all have to hope and pray that the situation calms and soon.

I will close this column by quoting the Prime Minister as the best answer to the question of why we are taking action in Libya:

“Just because we can’t do the right thing everywhere does not mean that we shouldn’t do it somewhere.

“With United Nations support, the action we are taking in Libya is legal, necessary and right.’