More than a dozen senior Conservative MPs and peers have written to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, urging the UK to immediately recognise Palestine as a state. The letter, organised by former minister Kit Malthouse, breaks ranks with the party's official stance and calls for action ahead of key UN talks next month.
The signatories include seven MPs and six members of the House of Lords, spanning both moderate and right-wing factions of the party. Among them are Edward Leigh, Simon Hoare, John Hayes, Desmond Swayne, Hugo Swire, Nicholas Soames, and Patricia Morris.
The letter argues that recognition would affirm Britain's commitment to justice and self-determination, stating: 'Recognising Palestine would affirm our nation’s commitment to upholding the principles of justice, self-determination and equal rights. It would send a clear message that Britain stands against indefinite occupation.'
The move comes as Israel approved a plan to occupy most of Gaza, further dimming hopes for a two-state solution. The UK government, however, maintains that recognition should come as part of peace negotiations, not as a starting point. A Conservative spokesperson said: 'We are not at that point now.'
Foreign Secretary David Lammy indicated last week that the government is in talks with France about its plans for a conference next month aimed at boosting support for a two-state solution. Downing Street reiterated its commitment to a two-state solution, citing Starmer's recent meeting with Palestinian Authority head Mohammad Mustafa.
