§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will set out the steps they are taking in connection with Israel's plan for disengagement from Gaza, given the need for the plan to be fully consistent with a durable solution to wider Israel-Palestine issues. [HL4169]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe UK, bilaterally and in co-operation with international partners, continues to engage with Israel to ensure withdrawals from Gaza and the West Bank take place as soon as possible and are as complete as possible.
We are continuing to work with the Palestinian Authority in areas where it needs to deliver a visible improvement in the security situation, and we are also 200WA encouraging the parties to work together and with the World Bank to ensure the economic viability of Gaza post-withdrawal. We have also made it clear that it is essential these withdrawals be a first step rather than an end in themselves. The UK believes the road map remains the best means to achieve a comprehensive and lasting settlement to the conflict.