By IW Observer.co.uk
The incredible generosity of Islanders helping to support and protect people affected by the invasion of Ukraine has been highlighted to a senior government minister.
Isle of Wight councillor, Chris Jarman, wrote to Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, in his role as chairman of the council’s pension fund. He was responding to an appeal to local authority pension fund chairmen to exert pressure on Russia to “cease its attack on the integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine.”
Writing to confirm that the IW Council’s pension fund has no direct holdings in Russian stocks, significant investments in Russia-linked equities or contractual links with any Russian fuel supplier, Cllr Jarman took the opportunity to describe the outpouring of Island support for Ukrainians affected by the war and said: “The Ukrainian flag has been hoisted alongside our Union and Isle of Wight flags at County Hall to reflect the strength of our unity and support.”
He added: “Our collective international pressure for peace must prevail against the aggressor and the Ukrainian people can be assured of our enduring support.”
The Ukrainian flag was also flown at County Hall alongside the Union Jack and the Suffragettes’ flag on International Women’s Day (March 8).
Press Release