§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What action they propose to take to help prevent the Israeli settlement of Ariel near Nablus from building 3,000 new houses and becoming a city, in contravention of international law. [HL3811]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe decision to give Ariel city status was announced on 11 June and this was formally conferred by Prime Minister Netanyahu on 7 October. Belated action at this sensitive stage of the peace process would be counter productive. But our position on settlements is clear and well known to the Israelis. Settlements in the Occupied Territories and East Jerusalem are illegal under international law and an obstacle to peace. The Israeli Cabinet ratified the Wye River Memorandum on 11 November. We expect Israel to abide by the letter and spirit of this agreement and refrain from any unilateral or provocative acts.