Former cabinet minister calls for West Bank settlement trade ban

A former Cabinet Minister has called on the UK government to issue an immediate ban on trade with the settlements in the West Bank.

Speaking in the Commons, Conservative MP for North West Hampshire Kit Malthouse, said: “In a very welcome move the Government obviously announced that it was going to bring in travel bans on violent settlers, but does the minister agree in order to deter this activity, which is worsening by the day, something more draconian may be needed and would he look please at instituting immediate bans on trade with settlements?”

Foreign Office minister Andrew Mitchell responded saying: “That is not the policy of the Government and he will be aware that we are opposed to boycotts, divestments and sanctions.”

Mitchell, responding to an urgent question on the conflict from Labour, told MPs: “Let me begin by reiterating our fundamental belief in Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas. The events of October 7 were truly horrifying. Israel has a right to restore its security and to ensure that such a horrifying event can never be repeated.

“We are also clear that too many civilians have been killed, Israel needs to ensure its campaign is targeted on Hamas leaders and operatives, fulfils its obligations to protect civilians and is consistent with international humanitarian law.

“No-one wants to see this conflict go on for a moment longer than necessary and that is why the United Kingdom played a leading role in securing the passage of Security Council resolution 2720, which made clear the urgent demand for expanded humanitarian access.

“The resolution also called for the release of hostages and for steps towards a sustainable ceasefire, something for which the British Government has consistently led calls.”

Labour MP Zarah Sultana also spoke during in the debate accusing Israel or committing “genocide” in Gaza, and twice calling for the UK to expel Israeli ambassador to the UK Tzipi Hotovely.

Earlier in the debate, Labour MP for Sheffield Central Paul Blomfield had urged the Government to allow Palestinians who were studying in the UK to escape Gaza and return to their courses. He said: “The Foreign Office has been compiling lists of those who wish to leave but it’s currently limited to dual-nationals and their immediate dependants.

“Now I appreciate the difficulties at the Rafah crossing but would the minister give consideration to extending eligibility for the Foreign Office list to those Palestinian nationals who … are in the middle of courses in UK universities?”

Mitchell agreed to speak with Mr Blomfield after the urgent question debate had concluded.