§ John AustinTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with EU ministers concerning Israel's export to the EU of goods manufactured in Israeli settlements in the occupied territories; and what action has been taken by the EU. [18864]
§ Peter HainThe issue was discussed at the 19 November General Affairs Council, in preparation for the EU-Israel Association Council on 20 November. At the Association Council, the EU underlined its interest in maintaining a strong trade partnership with Israel and its intention to find a sustainable solution to the rules of origin issue. The council noted its concern that Israel should comply with the territorial scope of the agreement.
On 23 November the European Commission published a notice to importers in the EC Official Journal advising importers presenting documentary evidence of origin with a view to securing preferential treatment for products originating in Israeli settlements in the West Bank, Gaza strip, East Jerusalem and Golan Heights to take all necessary precautions.