HC Deb 20 December 1988 vol 144 c145W
Mr. Cummings

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to Israel about the closure of academic institutions in occupied Palestine for over one year, in particular the universities of Bir-Zeit, Al-Najah, Bethlehem and the Islamic university of Gaza; and whether he will meet representatives of these institutions.

Mr. Waldegrave

We have made repeated representations to the Israelis about the closure of universities, most recently with our European partners on 23 September. Her Majesty's consul-general in Jerusalem maintains contact with representatives of these institutions.

Mr. Cummings

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he intends to meet senior figures within the Palestine Liberation Organisation in order to advance the peace process in the light of the Palestine Liberation Organisation's explicit acceptance of the state of Israel; and whether he will invite the Palestine Liberation Organisation's leader, Chairman Arafat, to London for talks.

Mr. Waldegrave

My right hon. and learned Friend has no plans at present to do so.