PORT of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young defended Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles against what he described as attempts by government to embarrass and deflect attention away from its own actions with respect to ongoing US-Venezuela tensions in the Caribbean.

Speaking during debate on a private motion by Beckles on this issue, in the House of Representatives on November 28, he thanked her for having the courage and fortitude to bring the motion to the House.

He noted attempts by Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal to amend Beckles’ motion in order to paint the government in a good light. “I denounce the behaviour of those on the other side in trying to silence the Opposition Leader.”