Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories Debate

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Department: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories

Rachael Maskell Excerpts
Wednesday 4th June 2025

(3 days, 14 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
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Hamish Falconer Portrait Mr Falconer
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I share my hon. Friend’s concern over events at the Rafah crossing and beyond. The scenes from Gaza are intolerable. I will return to this House when I am in a position to do so.

Rachael Maskell Portrait Rachael Maskell (York Central) (Lab/Co-op)
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It is clear that this House has no confidence in the Government’s handling of the F-35 programme. I ask the Minister the following question: what is to stop the Government withdrawing from the programme and then bilaterally selling the parts to countries excluding Israel? This would ensure that we are compliant with international humanitarian law, and that no component manufactured in the UK is used to bomb innocent civilians in Gaza.

Hamish Falconer Portrait Mr Falconer
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A unilateral withdrawal from the F-35 programme would have the effect of fully suspending the programme at a time it is required for global peace and security.