Palestinian Refugees Debate

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Department: Leader of the House

Palestinian Refugees

Lord Bruce of Bennachie Excerpts
Thursday 13th November 2025

(1 day, 11 hours ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Lemos Portrait Lord Lemos (Lab)
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I thank the noble Baroness for that question. As I have said, the UK’s recognition of the State of Palestine does not alter the status of Palestinian refugees, and the question of refugee status remains a final status issue to be resolved through negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians. We are deeply concerned to hear the accusations about UNRWA staff involved in 7 October 2023, and we welcome its commitment to fully investigate allegations against its employees and the continued implementation of the Colonna report’s recommendations to ensure neutrality and integrity.

Lord Bruce of Bennachie Portrait Lord Bruce of Bennachie (LD)
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As long as Israel maintains its occupation of Gaza and the consolidation and illegal expansion of settlements in the West Bank, the reality of a Palestinian state remains completely distant. As permanent members of the Security Council, what are Britain and France doing together to try to ensure the establishment of a Palestinian state and the resolution of the refugee problem?