Thank you for contacting me about evictions and demolitions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and EDM 529.

Demolitions and evictions of Palestinians from their homes cause unnecessary suffering to ordinary Palestinians, call into question Israel's commitment to a viable two-state solution, and, in all but the most exceptional of cases, are contrary to International Humanitarian Law.

The UK Government has allocated funding towards supporting around 124 Palestinian communities in Area C and East Jerusalem through needs-based and emergency services.  This helps provide pre-fabricated residential, livelihood and agricultural structures.  Funding has also been used to provide off grid energy to 50 households in Area C through the installation of 30 renewable energy systems.

Officials from the UK Embassy in Tel Aviv have repeatedly raised concerns with the Israeli authorities about the increase in evictions and demolitions of Palestinian properties in Area C of the West Bank and in East Jerusalem.  It has called on them to cease the policy of demolitions and provide a clear, transparent route to construction for Palestinians in Area C.

I do not, as a rule, sign EDMs but I will bear your comments in mind when this issue is debated. 

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.