The House of Commons will hear the backbench debate, which centres on a motion stating ‘That this House believes the Government should recognise the state of Palestine alongside the state of Israel’ today (Monday). A proposed amendment will be added to the end of the original motion saying ‘On the conclusion of successful peace negotiations between the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority’.
Speaking before the debate, East Belfast MP Mrs Long said she was supporting the original motion but not the amendment.
“Today’s vote is largely symbolic but important nonetheless, coming a week after Sweden became the first major European country to officially recognise the state of Palestine. Israel is already recognised by the international community and, in light of our commitment to a two-state solution, it is important to recognise Palestine as a nation state.
“The UK has an important role as a broker for peace in the Israel and Palestine conflict, particularly given our historic role in the region, and it is important Palestine is recognised, especially as over 130 UN member states have already taken this step.
“Recognition of a state does not necessarily mean acknowledgement of its government, but sends a message to the rest of the world that the peaceful democratic process is the only way to find a solution to the problems facing us.”
ENDS