Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to realise that part of the Balfour Declaration relating to Palestinians that "nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine".

As the Prime Minister has said the UK is proud of the role the UK played in helping to make a Jewish homeland a reality; however, we also understand and respect the sensitivities many have about the Balfour Declaration. Balfour remains unfinished business. That is why we are committed to ensuring that the whole of Balfour is fulfilled, through a two-state solution which provides security and justice for both Israelis and Palestinians, as well as protecting Jewish communities across the Middle East. Our focus now is on encouraging the parties to take steps which bring them closer to peace, and Ministers are in regular contact with them. We remain absolutely committed to ensure the two state solution of a secure and stable Israel, and a sovereign and sustainable Palestinian State are achieved at the earliest time possible and will continue our efforts at all levels in pursuing this objective.