Scottish former MP to head new Israel-Britain Alliance

A Scottish trade unionist and former MP is to head a new Zionist Federation lobbying group designed to “strengthen ties” between the British and Israeli parliaments.

Michael McCann, a former vice-chair of Labour Friends of Israel who lost his East Kilbride seat last year, will head the newly-formed Israel-Britain Alliance, a ZF project to “build relationships between politicians and grassroots Israel supporters”.

He said: “We will offer clarity on the Israel/Palestinian conflict, other pressing issues in the Middle East and issues of global significance. Complex issues cannot be solved unless all parties are heard in a spirit of mutual respect.”

Paul Charney, who chairs the ZF, said: “We’re very excited about the potential that the Israel-Britain Alliance offers to step-up political engagement for Israel. Michael offers great experience and connections within Westminster.”