My statement: The vote on a ceasefire in Gaza

It was recorded that I abstained on the vote last night. However, unfortunately I am on a pre-arranged Commonwealth Parliamentary Association visit overseas this week, arranged before the King’s Speech therefore I was not in Parliament for the vote regarding a ceasefire in Gaza and Israel.

I am really sorry I wasn’t able to participate in this crucial debate. Had I been present, I would have voted for any amendment calling for an immediate ceasefire on both sides.

Many thousands of my constituents have contacted me asking me to support the call for a ceasefire- by far the largest postbag on any issue since my election in 2019.

I have made my position clear: I’ve signed EDM 1 calling for an urgent ceasefire, questioned the Prime Minister in Parliament, and signed Amendment B to the King’s Speech and made public statements on my social media. More information for which can be found here.

I want to make clear that I condemn the brutal killings of innocent Israeli men, women and children and the taking of hostages by Hamas. I echo the calls of the international community to release all hostages immediately.

Equally, I condemn the killings of over 11,000 Palestinian civilians in Gaza, 68 % of whom are women and children, during the bombardment of the Gaza strip in recent weeks.

I remain clear that a ceasefire is the only way to protect civilians, and the only way towards achieving peace in the region.

The UK Government and their international partners must do everything to achieve an urgent ceasefire and a lasting peace with the fundamental rights of Palestinians and Israelis respected -a secure Israel and a viable Palestine.