Written question asked by Matt Western (Labour) on Tuesday, 17 January 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 January 2023. It was answered by David Rutley (Conservative) on Wednesday, 25 January 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

West Bank: Palestinians

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had recent discussions with his Israeli counterpart on the destruction of Palestinian villages located within Masafer Yatta in the West Bank.

Answer: The UK is clear that in all but the most exceptional of circumstances, demolitions and evictions are contrary to International Humanitarian Law. Our opposition to the demolition of Palestinian property and the evictions of Palestinians from their homes is long-standing. The practice causes unnecessary suffering to Palestinians and is harmful to efforts to promote peace. The Minister for the Middle East, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon reinforced this message during a visit to a UK donor funded school facing demolition on 12 January.

Secondary information