Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made to the Government of Israel on the forced transfer of Palestinian residents from Masafer Yatta.

We are deeply concerned by the levels of settler violence, settlement growth, and demolition of Palestinian homes in the West Bank. More than 1,000 people in Masafer Yatta face the prospect of demolitions and evictions. In all but the most exceptional cases, demolitions by an occupying power are contrary to international law. We urge Israel to halt demolitions and evictions of Palestinian communities. The UK Government supports Bedouin and Palestinian communities facing demolition or eviction in Area C of the West Bank through access to legal aid programmes and outreach to vulnerable and remote areas. Our officials in Jerusalem will continue to meet communities at risk of demolition and displacement, including the communities of Masafer Yatta.