§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will inquire of the Government of Israel why they are proposing to demolish the houses in settlements, prior to withdrawing from the Gaza Strip, taking account of the shortage of housing for Palestinians. [HL3194]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanWe would warmly welcome a withdrawal of settlers and the Israeli defence forces from Gaza. We are pleased that Israel is working on plans to do this. It will be key that withdrawal delivers real improvements for the lives of Palestinians. The Israeli Government are beginning planning on the practical details, including what becomes of settlement infrastructure. I hope that my forthcoming visit to Israel will be an opportunity to discuss practical issues of this kind with the Israeli Government.