unequivocal support of our crews
Indeed.
complete ineffectiveness of Labour
The 'weak' opposition allowed a free vote - I don't see that as a weakness. Most of the time there is disagreement within a party, but party policy overrides that disagreement giving a united front. In instances such as this a free vote is the best way of achieving proper representation. Of course you could argue there would have been a revolt had he not offered a free vote... But that's for another day and time.
Anyhow, it's done. lets get on with it.