Gaza City

Lord Callanan Excerpts

Monday 8th September 2025 Lords Chamber

[Lord Callanan (Con)]

The Minister referred to the Government’s intention to recognise Palestine. The Montevideo convention sets out in international law the four criteria that constitute a state: a defined territory, a permanent population, a functioning Government and the capacity to enter into international relations. Which of these four criteria are fulfilled by the state of Palestine? This is the third time that I have asked the Minister this question. Perhaps this time she would do me the courtesy of answering it.

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

This is the third time that the noble Lord has asked that question. The response remains the same. We will make our decision when the time comes in accordance with the principles that we have laid out. We will explain fully the rationale for that decision at the time. I think that people can see the reasons for us getting to the place that we have. It was in our manifesto that we would recognise Palestine at a time that was conducive to bringing about peace. Many of us were hopeful that those conditions would be brought about more quickly.

Things have not developed as any of us would wish. We find ourselves in a situation where we have made announcements about recognition in the worst of circumstances. I wish that it was not like this, but it is. The noble Lord will have every opportunity to agree or disagree and challenge us on that decision when the time comes.