More disinformation from Putin, but there's a surprise. He blamed the West for Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, and drew parallels with the Red Army’s fight against Nazi troops in the Second World War and Russia's military action in Ukraine. All a bit rich coming from a murdering thug. The House was still prorogued following last week's local elections, but there was plenty to get on with, not least preparing for Defence Committee to NATO HQs in Brussels tomorrow. In the afternoon, I joined a virtual meeting with NI Secretary Brandon Lewis, organised by Iain Duncan-Smith. It was a private meeting and most informative. Much to everyone's surprise, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he would quit if given a fine by Durham police for breaking lockdown rules. There's more to this ruse than meets the eye and unfairly puts the police in a difficult position while they are investigating the case. Following Sinn Fein's disastrous success in the Assembly election, they are already throwing their weight about, telling the government that it must not "hold the people and society" of Northern Ireland "to ransom" by delaying the formation of an executive to govern the country. This is just the beginning of a difficult time for Northern Ireland sadly. Finally, the Queen will miss the State Opening of Parliament tomorrow, with the Prince of Wales reading the Queen’s Speech on her behalf. She will be missed.