Oral Answers to Questions

David Simmonds Excerpts

Wednesday 23rd October 2024 Commons Chamber

[The Deputy Prime Minister]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising this serious and important issue. The humanitarian situation in northern Gaza is dire. We need an immediate ceasefire, much more aid allowed to flow in and an immediate release of all the hostages. We have suspended UK export licences to Israel for items that might be used in the current conflict. The Government have concluded that there is a clear risk that items exported to Israel might be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza. That does not change our position of steadfast support for Israel’s security, but we will always do so in a manner consistent with our obligations under domestic and international law.

[David Simmonds (Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner) (Con)]

Q5. Our child protection services have had to deal with a number of cases where parents and carers have argued that their fatal actions were lawful punishment. Will the Deputy Prime Minister bring forward legislation bringing the rest of our country into line with Scotland and Wales, so that all children enjoy unambiguous protection in law against violence?

[The Deputy Prime Minister]

The hon. Gentleman raises a very important point. I will ensure that the Minister has a meeting with him. The first job of any Government is to protect their citizens and that includes our children. We will make sure we work across the House to deliver that.