Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

The Foreign Secretary, Mr. David Lammy, opened the debate by outlining the Government's position on the recognition of a Palestinian state. He stated that the Government wants a "credible and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution" and that they are committed to recognising a Palestinian state as a contribution to the peace process, at the most conducive time. The shadow Foreign Secretary, Mr. Andrew Mitchell, welcomed the Foreign Secretary to his new position and urged him to avoid any suggestion of "international legal-moral equivalence" between a terrorist and the elected head of a democratic state. He reminded the Foreign Secretary that British arms and military personnel were recently defending Israel from missiles launched by Iran. The debate then covered a wide range of topics, including the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the Government's review of Israel's compliance with international humanitarian law, the recognition of the state of Palestine, the situation in Bangladesh, the UK's relationship with India, and the Government's support for Ukraine. Several members pressed the Government to take stronger action to improve the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with calls for immediate ceasefires, increased aid, and efforts to address the underlying political issues. The Foreign Secretary acknowledged the severity of the situation and stated that the Government would continue to press for an immediate ceasefire and a credible pathway towards a two-state solution. On the recognition of Palestine, the Government maintained its position that this would be done as part of a peace process, at the most conducive time. However, some members argued that recognition should be a starting point to help kickstart the peace process. The debate also touched on the Government's review of Israel's compliance with international humanitarian law, with the Foreign Secretary stating that this is an ongoing process and that he will update the House as soon as possible. Regarding the situation in Bangladesh, the Government expressed deep concern over the recent violence and crackdown on dissent, and stated that they are pressing the Bangladeshi authorities to uphold human rights and the rule of law. On the UK's relationship with India, the Foreign Secretary discussed the progress made during his recent visit, including the launch of a new tech and security initiative, and the ongoing trade negotiations. Finally, the Government reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine, with the Foreign Secretary stating that the UK will continue to stand with Ukraine and support its efforts to achieve peace.