§ Mr. BowisTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his latest estimate is for Palestinians detained without trial in Israel; how many of these come from the occupied territories; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldegraveWe understand that there are just over 900 Palestinian administrative detainees currently held by the Israeli authorities. These are among a total of between 4,000 and 5,000 Palestinians detained so far without trial in Israel and the occupied territories. In addition to the administrative detainees, there are those awaiting trial, under investigation, sentenced for short periods or of as yet undefined status. We have made clear repeatedly to the Israelis our strong opposition to the practice of administrative detention.