Will Forster MP calls for ban on UK trade with illegal Israeli settlements

Will Forster MP calls for ban on UK trade with illegal Israeli settlements

The new Liberal Democrat MP for Woking is calling for a complete ban on trade with illegal Israeli settlements. The Lib Dems believe settlement expansion worsens the crisis. 

Will Forster, the Liberal Democrat MP for Woking, has tabled a motion in Parliament calling on the Government to prohibit trade with illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories as he believes these settlements are a barrier to peace and a two-state solution. 

The move by the Liberal Democrat MP comes in response to the Israeli Government’s recent announcement of 22 new settlements. An act which the United Nations and the British Government consider a clear violation of international law.  

The Liberal Democrats say that trade with illegal settlements helps entrench and expand them, undermining hopes for two state solution and peace in the region. 

The Early Day Motion (EDM) put forward by Will Forster, urges the Government to bring forward laws to ban trade with illegal Israeli settlements and calls on UK businesses to ensure their supply chains are not linked to, or profiting from them. 

Will Forster MP explains why he has called for the ban:  

“These illegal settlements are a flagrant breach of international law and since the 1960s have been a barrier to peace. Every pound made from trading with them sends the message that the UK turns a blind eye to injustice and occupation. 

“People in Woking and across the UK want to see our country standing up for human rights and international law. That’s why I’m calling on the Government to end all trade with these settlements and play its part in securing a peaceful future for both Palestinians and Israelis. 

“We cannot continue business as usual with those who are actively expanding illegal settlements and perpetuating the rhetoric of conflict. The UK must show leadership by acting now.”