LONDON, June 2, 2010 (WAFA)- Over 65 British MPs from across seven political parties have today signed a parliamentary motion calling for a full investigation into Israel’s attack on the Gaza aid flotilla and an end to the blockade of Gaza.
The motion, tabled by Richard Burden MP, says:
“That this House is appalled by the loss of life associated with Israel’s attack on the flotilla of ships carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza; notes that UK and other nationals have been held by Israel despite the attack having taken place in international waters; endorses the call of the United Nations Secretary General for a prompt, impartial, credible and transparent investigation conforming to international standards; recognises that Israel’s blockade which has destroyed the economy of Gaza and deepened poverty still inflicts widespread suffering and, by imposing collective punishment on the people of Gaza, is itself contrary to international law; and calls on the international community to require Israel to end its blockade and to redouble international efforts to secure a lasting settlement with a secure and independent state of Palestine alongside a secure and independent Israel.”
The motion has received the support of MPs from seven political parties: Conservative, Green, Labour, Liberal Democrat, Plaid Cymru, SDLP and SNP. A full list of the MPs who have signed the motion so far is available from Duncan Sinclair (contact details below).
Richard Burden MP, Chair of the Britain-Palestine All Party Parliamentary Group, said:
‘I am appalled at the attack on the flotilla of ships carrying vital humanitarian aid to Gaza and this tragic loss of life.
‘The United Nations Secretary General has called for a prompt, impartial, credible and transparent investigation into exactly how this happened. For far too long Israel has appeared to reject any notion that it should be held accountable for its actions in relation to Gaza. This must not be allowed to continue.
‘Israel’s blockade has punished the people of Gaza for the last three years – the economy has been wrecked; hospitals, schools and homes destroyed during Operation Cast Lead cannot be rebuilt; poverty and widespread suffering continues. This is collective punishment and contrary to international law. Israel must lift their blockade.
‘And this is it yet another reminder that the international community must redouble efforts to secure a lasting peace settlement with a secure and independent state of Palestine alongside a secure and independent Israel.’
