Written question asked by Baroness Tonge (Non-affiliated) on Monday, 28 September 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 October 2020. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 12 October 2020 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Palestinians: Elections

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports that Fatah and Hamas have agreed to hold elections in Palestine within the next six months.

Answer: Genuine and democratic national elections for all Palestinians, are crucial to the establishment of a viable and sovereign Palestinian State. We are supportive of Hamas-Fatah reconciliation attempts, and of the PA returning to resume government functions in Gaza, helping to improve the dire humanitarian and economic situation and restore effective and accountable governance. We continue to encourage the Palestinian leadership to work toward strong, inclusive, accountable and democratic institutions, based on respect for the rule of law and human rights.

Secondary information