British Embassy
Relocation: Jerusalem
(Batley and Spen)
(Lab): What assessment he has made of the potential effect
of relocating the British embassy in Israel to
Jerusalem.(902110)
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign,
Commonwealth and Development Affairs (): There are no plans to
move the UK embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv
Israel is a close friend and a key strategic partner, built on
decades of co-operation. We will continue to strengthen our
relationship with Israel through our embassy in Tel
Aviv
: I am very pleased to
hear that, as I know my constituents will be. However, why was
that move ever under consideration, given that last month at the
United Nations, 143 countries, including Israel and the UK, voted
to reaffirm that any unilateral annexation of territory by
another state is a violation of international law? Navi Pillay,
the former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has observed
that unless that principle is applied equally to the Occupied
Palestinian Territories, including East Jerusalem, it would
become meaningless. Is this not just another example of the
Conservative party’s chaotic approach to international relations
that has so badly undermined the UK’s reputation on the global
stage?
: The Government have
looked at this issue. There are no plans to move the British
embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv We will
continue to work to ensure that we are in the best position
possible to continue promoting peace and stability in the region
and supporting a two-state solution.
(Gloucester) (Con): I
welcome the Minister’s update. Will he reaffirm that that is the
long- standing position of our country; that it is the right
position internationally; that the work done by our
consulate-general in Jerusalem is extremely valued and
complements what is happening in our embassy in Tel
Aviv and that that will continue to be the case?
: My hon. Friend has real
expertise on the issue. Yes, I completely agree with him.
(Harrow East) (Con): Will my right hon. Friend
join me in congratulating Benjamin Netanyahu on his recent
election victory in Israel and in wishing for Bibi to form a
broad-based coalition across Israel, so that there is a proper
stable Government for our key ally?
: We congratulate Benjamin
Netanyahu on his election victory. As one of Israel’s closest
partners, the UK looks forward to working with Israel to ensure
that our relationship continues to flourish.
(Hammersmith)
(Lab): What assessment have the Government made of the role
of far-right parties in Israel’s new Government, as they are
Netanyahu’s principal coalition partner? Will UK Ministers be
meeting representatives of those far-right parties?
: As I have already
highlighted, Israel is one of our closest partners and we will
continue to have a close working relationship with the new
Government. It would be inappropriate to comment further at this
stage, ahead of the Government’s formation.
