Written question asked by Baroness Tonge (Non-affiliated) on Monday, 22 July 2019, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 5 August 2019. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 5 August 2019 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Gaza: Fuel Poverty

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the reported use of collective punishment by the government of Israel, and in particular, the impact of that policy on the level of fuel poverty in Gaza.

Answer: We have serious concerns about Israel's movement and access restrictions on Gaza, and are deeply concerned by the fuel shortages, which are exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation. The Minster for the Middle East discussed the situation in Gaza during his visit there in May. Our Embassy in Tel Aviv and our Consulate-General in Jerusalem frequently urge the Israeli and Palestinian authorities to take steps to improve conditions in Gaza. Addressing Gaza's energy shortfall is critical. We are working to address the underlying causes of the humanitarian situation in Gaza by focusing on economic development, including enhancing the supply of electricity.

Secondary information