A delegation of Scottish Trade Unionists will today, Thursday 2 July, meet with the UK Minister for the Middle East, Ivan Lewis MP, to urge the British Government to impose sanctions on the state of Israel.
The STUC is deeply concerned at Israel’s continued violations of international laws, such as the Geneva Convention. The delegation will be making the case to the Middle East Minister that the British Government has a duty to challenge Israel over the growing settlements in Palestinian territory, its actions in Gaza, and its ongoing breaches of international human rights laws. Yesterday’s (30th June) illegal abduction in international waters by the Israeli Navy of the human rights activists delivering medical supplies to Gaza, will also be raised.
Speaking prior to meeting with the Minister, STUC General Secretary Grahame Smith said:
“We are very pleased to have the opportunity to make our case for sanctions to the Middle East Minister. Having seen the human rights violations experienced on a daily basis by ordinary Palestinians when I visited the region in March, I am absolutely clear that our own Government must act”.
Mr Smith added:
“Last week the Foreign Secretary expressed his dismay that trade union conferences are discussing boycotts, well this week we will be making the case as to why the British Government should be implementing sanctions”.
The STUC delegation to meet with the Middle East Minister Ivan Lewis MP is: Grahame Smith, General Secretary, STUC Fiona Smith, STUC Vice President and UNISON Mary Senior, Assistant Secretary, STUC Mike Kirby, UNISON Robert Mooney, Community.
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For further information
Mary Senior 0141 337 8100