Question to the Department for International Development:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government, in the light of the report of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development assistance to the Palestinian people <i>Developments in the economy of the Occupied Palestinian Territory</i> published in July 2015, what assessment they have made of the future habitability of the Gaza Strip.

The UK remains deeply concerned by the situation in Gaza and the report’s warning that Gaza could become uninhabitable by 2020. UK aid has supported economic development, provision of basic services, and enabled reconstruction through support to the Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism. However, as the report makes clear, aid alone cannot solve the problems in Gaza. We welcome Israel’s decision last year to increase the water supply to Gaza, as well as other commitments which permit the construction of essential energy infrastructure. Improvements in energy and water provision are essential to improve the daily life of the people living in Gaza. The UK government frequently stresses with both parties the importance that these commitments are implemented quickly, and continues to press for a sustainable political solution for Gaza which will address Israel’s legitimate security concerns whilst opening up movement and access.