Ms Lesley O'Connor:

The Government has frequently made encouraging declarations on Palestine and the need for peace in the region. However, little has changed. In the face of these threats, words are no longer enough. Therefore, we call on the Government to act. We respectfully request the committee to endorse the following recommendations and press the Government to commit to them: the immediate recognition of the state of Palestine as a simple, yet significant, step towards a two-state solution; pressing for compensation for the demolition of EU-funded aid structures by Israel and systematically demanding compensation every time a structure is demolished; provide increased Government funding directly to UNRWA and for peace-building work in the region; the Government to advocate at EU level for increased funding for UNRWA from the European Union; ending the arms trade with Israel and Government procurement from Israel and dual-use exports; pushing for a review of the Gaza reconstruction mechanism and ensuring we recognise Israel’s primary responsibility for closures. I know that many members have been to Palestine, but for those who have not, I respectfully request that they consider any opportunity to go and see the position for themselves.