Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the damage caused to (1) crops, and (2) livestock, in Gaza following the release of water from rainwater collection dams by the government of Israel.

While we have not made an assessment of this situation, we remain concerned about the quality and quantity of water available to residents of Gaza and the West Bank. The fair and effective distribution of shared water resources across the Middle East is of great concern to us. These resources are limited and therefore require the effective co-operation of all parties to manage them in such a manner that ensures there will be enough for all. The UK continues to encourage Israel to lift its restrictions and take appropriate steps in order to ease the suffering of ordinary Palestinians.