Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Palestinian State 2025-10-28

2025-10-28

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Andrew George LD
St Ives
▸ Context
The UK's recognition of the state of Palestine was announced to protect the viability of the two-state solution and support lasting peace.
Slow as it was, that is welcome indeed, but will the Government go beyond suspending new trade deals and actively review existing trade deals with Israel, including both goods and services originating from the illegal settlements, to ensure that UK trade policy does not undermine the prospect of Palestinian statehood?
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
The Foreign Secretary has already been clear about the importance of a single, effective Palestinian state, which includes the West Bank. The hon. Member has heard from me on a number of occasions about the different trading standards for both Israel itself and the occupied territories. We keep these questions under close review.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The specific request to actively review existing trade deals was not addressed with concrete commitments or actions.
Keeps Under Review
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Uma Kumaran Lab
Stratford and Bow
▸ Context
The head of the United Nations humanitarian affairs team described driving through Gaza City as like 'going through the ruins of Hiroshima'. The people of Gaza are facing a humanitarian disaster.
We all welcome a ceasefire and the recognition of a Palestinian state, but we must now support the Palestinian people. What steps are the Government taking to ensure that Israel stops blocking this urgently needed aid and humanitarian supplies, and to get them to the people who are desperately in need?
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
I want to update the House on this very important question. We are seeing a greater flow of aid into Gaza. That is supremely welcome, but it is not yet at the level we would wish to see. There are still restrictions on that aid going in, and vital crossings remain unopened. We continue to engage with all our partners on this issue.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The specific request for steps to ensure Israel stops blocking aid was not addressed with concrete commitments or actions.
Continuing To Engage Under Review
Response accuracy