Oral Answers to Questions

John Howell Excerpts
Tuesday 20th October 2015

(9 years, 2 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Tobias Ellwood Portrait Mr Ellwood
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The hon. Gentleman will be aware that Prime Minister Netanyahu visited recently. We have been making every effort to promote calm. The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary have spoken to key regional leaders over the recent weeks, and British officials have been pressing both sides to take steps to de-escalate the situation.

John Howell Portrait John Howell (Henley) (Con)
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22. What assessment has the Minister made about the significant damage to the holy site of Joseph’s tomb at Nablus, which was destroyed by up to 100 Palestinian rioters?

Tobias Ellwood Portrait Mr Ellwood
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I strongly condemn the burning of the tomb of Joseph in Nablus. The basic right of freedom to worship in safety and security should be protected for all. We have called for a swift and transparent investigation into the incident and for those responsible to be brought to justice.