HL Deb 18 February 1997 vol 578 c40WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When they last discussed with the Government of Israel the demolition and cementing-up of houses in the Occupied Territories and with what result.

Baroness Chalker of Wallasey

My right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary met Prime Minister Netanyahu on 3 November 1996 and discussed Israeli practices in East Jerusalem, including the demolition of Palestinian houses. We are concerned that this practice could alter the city's demographic balance, and so jeopardise the prospects for success in final status talks. We will continue to monitor the situation, and will raise our concerns with the Israeli authorities as suitable opportunities arise.