“the message that the Netanyahu government will be that during that window of opportunity nothing will happen and they’ll be able to act with impunity still”
John McDonnell MP
If I’ve got the government’s argument correct, the argument is that there’s a window of opportunity now between the decision by the Parliament and the implementation of this measure by the government.
And yesterday, I think it was the Member from North West Hampshire raised the issue, the question of what would be the consequence for the Israeli government if they go ahead to implementation.
The message today, and I say this with regret to my honourable friend, who I have a great deal of respect for, because we’ve worked with each other over the years, the message today is that on sanctions, no additional sanctions, we’re just reviewing them.
On arms, we’ll continue to supply the parts of the F35.
On trade, it was raised the trade negotiations will just continue.
On diplomacy, we will allow to remain in this country without any consequence, the Israeli Ambassador, who’s an advocate of a Greater Israel and therefore opposed to the UN position on a Palestinian state, on a two state solution.
Does she not realise the message that the Netanyahu government will be that during that window of opportunity nothing will happen and they’ll be able to act with impunity still?
Can I ask her to go back and consult with her colleagues and come forward now with a series of actions that will have some effect in saving lives in Gaza?
- John McDonnell is the MP for Hayes and Harlington.
- He was speaking in the Urgent Question Israel: UNRWA Ban in the House of Commons on 29th October 2024.
