HL Deb 28 January 1998 vol 585 c42WA
Lord Avebury

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What representations they have received from the Samaritans regarding the free movement of their people between Israel and the Palestinian authority; and whether they will propose that, as a confidence-building measure, a written agreement be made between the parties confirming that the Samaritans may pass freely across the boundary in either direction, without waiting for agreement on a comprehensive settlement of all outstanding matters. [HL179]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The editor of theSamaritan News met a Foreign and Commonwealth Office official in London on 8 January. The Samaritans currently enjoy freedom of movement, but want written confirmation of their status from Israel and the Palestinian authority. We shall monitor their situation and would consider making representations on their behalf if there were signs of a serious threat to their freedom of movement.