Here is my reply from my MP Helen Hayes:
Thank you for contacting me regarding the appalling events in Israel and Gaza. My thoughts at this time are with everyone affected by this terrible conflict.
I have been contacted by many constituents in recent weeks. The high volume of correspondence means that I am unable to respond individually to every email, but I have set out my response on this important issue below.
More than 1,400 Israelis were murdered by Hamas on 7 October in their homes and at a music festival and more than 200 Israeli civilians were taken into Gaza as hostages by Hamas, some of whom are now known to have been killed. The hostages include British citizens and I know many people here in the UK are desperately worried about the safety of friends and relatives in Israel. Hamas must release the hostages immediately.
Israel has the right to take proportionate steps to defend itself in the face of this horrific attack, and to rescue hostages, but it is of the utmost importance that this is carefully carried out in line with international law.
I am deeply concerned about the blockade of food, fuel, water and medicines into Gaza and the lack of protection for Palestinian civilians including children. There are already devastating reports of the impact of the blockade on hospitals in Gaza and we know that thousands of people have died in Gaza in recent days. While the access for aid trucks negotiated by President Biden is welcome, it is only a tiny fraction of the aid that is needed. I am clear that the UK government must take all possible steps to secure humanitarian access to Gaza for food, fuel, water and medicines at a scale required to address the humanitarian catastrophe that is unfolding.
It is also important that safe evacuation corridors are established to allow civilians to escape the violence. It is vital that the government continues to press all sides to ensure steps are taken to protect civilians from the violence. It is important that there is clarity on the right of residents in Gaza to return to their homes and neighbourhoods when hostilities cease. We need to use all diplomatic means possible to ensure the release of hostages and an end to hostilities as soon as possible.
The events of recent weeks have been devastating for anyone who believes in a peaceful two-state solution in the Middle East. We must be clear that responsibility for the current escalation lies in the abhorrent attacks by Hamas and that Hamas are not representative of the Palestinian people. Terror attacks do nothing to advance the cause of Palestinian statehood or peaceful co-operation between Israeli and Palestinian communities.
The end to decades of conflict in the Middle East will come with a two-state solution, a viable Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel. This is the only outcome which can ensure a long-term peace, and however far off it may seem at present, it is vital that steps are taken to reinitiate an effective peace process.
You can hear me speak on the current situation in the Middle East on BBC Radio 4’s Westminster Hour on Sunday 22 October
here.
Earlier this year, I visited the West Bank and East Jerusalem to meet with Palestinians and Israelis who are delivering medical services, campaigning for peaceful co-operation and working to safeguard human rights. You can read a full account of my visit
here. I have used the experience gained during this visit to scrutinise the government’s approach to Israel and Palestine in debates and questions to Ministers, raising issues including the protection of Palestinian health workers, the expansion of illegal settlements and settler violence. I can assure you that I will continue to campaign for peaceful co-operation and greater accountability for all human rights abuses.
I know this is a deeply worrying time for Jewish and Muslim communities across our local area and the UK. Many will be worried about the safety of relatives in the Middle East and we have seen an appalling rise in both antisemitism and Islamophobia in the UK in recent days. It is important that we do not allow these events to divide our communities in London. There must be zero tolerance for any intimidation and harassment, and it is important that any incidents are reported to the
Community Security Trust and
TellMama.
A number of constituents have asked me to sign Early Day Motions on these issues. As a member of the Shadow Frontbench I am afraid that I am unable to sign Early Day Motions on any topic.
Thank you again for writing to me. I can assure you that I will continue to urge the government to act to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, take all possible steps to protect civilians in both Gaza and Israel from the conflict, facilitate a cessation in the violence and re-start a meaningful peace process.
With best wishes,
She has just recently joined the shadow cabinet. So cannot vote for the EDM calling for ceasefire.
She is a good constituency MP and has actually bothered to visit Palestine. Where she saw at first hand how difficult life is for Palestinians. With illegal settlement building, settler violence. Even a medical facility she visited under threat of demolition.
She does trot out the Starmer line ( as it is now. Keeps changing) of Safe evacuation corridors and promise of right to return. Which I don't agree with. Also given Isreali history once out there is no return,