Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the Palestinian Authority following President Mahmoud Abbas’ rejection of the government of the United States' plan for a comprehensive peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinians and his announcement of the cutting of ties, including security ties, with the United States and Israel.

We are aware of President Abbas' comments. We encourage President Abbas to engage with the US and explore what options there might be for addressing his concerns. The Foreign Secretary called President Abbas on 27 January, before release of the plan. He emphasised the UK hope that the plan would permit a return to negotiations. Our Consul General in Jerusalem has been in regular discussion with the Palestinian Authority following release of the plan.