HC Deb 18 April 2002 vol 383 cc1048-9W
Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authorities to abide by the Fourth Geneva Convention and the UN Security Council Resolutions 242 and 338 governing wartime and occupation. [48951]

Mr. Bradshaw

[holding answer 15 April 2002]: We support the ICRC's call for all parties to respect international humanitarian law, including the Fourth Geneva Convention. We have made clear to the Israeli Government that we expect medical and humanitarian organisations and Consular staff to have uninterrupted access to those in need. My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary stressed our concerns to Israeli Foreign Minister Peres in a telephone call on 10 April. We have called for an immediate and full Israeli withdrawal from Palestinian towns in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1402.

Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Israeli Government to uphold the terms of the Geneva Convention with reference to(a) attacking civilian populations and (b) destroying objects indispensable to their survival. [48950]

Mr. Bradshaw

[holding answer of 15 April 2002]: We have grave concerns for the safety of civilians and about the destruction of property and infrastructure in the Occupied Territories. We have called repeatedly on the Israeli authorities to comply with the terms of the Geneva Convention and to take all necessary precautions to spare civilians and civilian property.

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