International Criminal Court: US Sanctions

Lord Thomas of Gresford Excerpts

Tuesday 11th February 2025 Lords Chamber

[Lord Collins of Highbury (Lab)]

Of course, I agree that where states fail to properly investigate, the ICC has a right to step in. In this case, as the noble Lord pointed out, Israel has undertaken a due and proper investigation, so I agree with the noble Lord in that particular case.

[Lord Thomas of Gresford (LD)]

Will the Government inform Donald Trump that the forcible transfer of the population of Gaza will be an Article 7(1)(d) crime against humanity, and that under Section 2 of our own domestic International Criminal Court Act 2001, our Attorney-General has no discretion but to endorse any warrant of arrest for the President issued by the ICC for execution in the United Kingdom? That will mean no more golf for the President at Balmedie and Turnberry, and, certainly, no more cups of tea and parades with our good King Charles.

[Lord Collins of Highbury (Lab)]

My Lords, I am going to repeat what I said. The ceasefire and the return of the hostages were negotiated with the United States with the support of the United Kingdom, and the Presidents of the United States were heavily involved in that ceasefire. Our focus is absolutely to ensure the return of all hostages, and that peace can continue in Gaza so that we can get the humanitarian aid in. That is what we are focused on. I am sorry that I do not agree with the noble Lord at all.