The Bishop of Gloucester received the following written answers on 23rd June 2025:
The Lord Bishop of Gloucester asked His Majesty’s Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel regarding its announcement of 29 May that 22 new Israeli settlements have been approved in the West Bank.
Lord Collins of Highbury (Lab, FCDO): We are clear that settlements are illegal under international law and undermine the prospects for peace. The Minister for the Middle East condemned the 22 new settlements announced by Israel on 29 May 2025 and we regularly urge Israel to halt settlement expansion in our diplomatic engagements. This government is committed to a two-state solution. It remains the only viable framework for a just and lasting peace.
The Lord Bishop of Gloucester asked His Majesty’s Government, following the International Court of Justice’s Advisory Opinion of 19 July 2024, what steps they are taking to prevent trade or investment relations that assist in the maintenance of the settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Lord Collins of Highbury: The UK is fully committed to international law and respects the independence of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). We continue to consider the Court’s Advisory Opinion carefully, with the seriousness and rigour it deserves. The UK does not recognise the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including Israeli settlements, as part of Israel. Goods imported from the settlements are therefore not entitled to benefit from trade preferences under the UK-Israel Trade and Partnership Agreement. The UK also supports accurate labelling of settlement goods, so as not to mislead the consumer.
The Lord Bishop of Gloucester asked His Majesty’s Government whether they plan to recognise the State of Palestine.
Lord Collins of Highbury: The UK commitment to a two-state solution is unwavering. We are committed to recognising a Palestinian state at a time that has the most impact in achieving this reality and is most conducive to long-term prospects for peace. We are clear that does not need to be at the end of a process. UK bilateral recognition is the single most important action the UK can take with regard to Palestinian statehood. That is why it is important to get the timing right so that it creates genuine momentum and is not simply a symbolic gesture. We are continuing to engage all partners on advancing a two-state solution and supporting the foundations of Palestinian statehood. Any UK decision to recognise another state is the prerogative of the Crown, acting on the advice of the Government.
The Church of England in Parliament 
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