Ben-Gvir and Smotrich: Davey welcomes sanctions and calls for recognition of Palestine

EMBARGO: Immediate Release

Responding to the announcement of sanctions on Israeli ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich, Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said:

"I’m relieved to see the Government finally sanction the extremist ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich. Their calls for the forced displacement and dispossession of Palestinians are utterly abhorrent, and it’s right that they will now face consequences.

"Liberal Democrats have been calling for these sanctions since last February. It’s disappointing that the Conservative government refused and Labour took so long to act.

"The antidote to the extremism of ministers like Ben-Gvir and Smotrich must be to officially recognise the independent state of Palestine. The Government should take this vital step at next week’s summit - rejecting extremism, demonstrating the UK's commitment to self-determination, and giving both Israelis and Palestinians hope of a lasting peace.”

ENDS