We write to you in advance of the UN Conference co-chaired by France and Saudi
Arabia on the 28th-29th July in New York, to put on record our support for UK recognition of a Palestinian state.
We are expectant that the outcome of the conference will be the UK Government
outlining when and how it will act on its long-standing commitment on a two-state solution; as well as how it will work with international partners to make this a reality.
Whilst we appreciate the UK does not have it in its power to bring about a free and independent Palestine, UK recognition would have a significant impact due to our historic connections and our membership on the UN Security Council, so we urge you to take this step.
British recognition of Palestine would be particularly powerful given its role as the author of the Balfour Declaration and the former Mandatory Power in Palestine. Since 1980 we have backed a two-state solution. Such a recognition would give that position substance as well as living up to a historic responsibility we have to the people under that Mandate.