DISAPPEARANCE OF ALAN JOHNSTON IN GAZA

Early day motion 1181, tabled 20 March 2007 by Richard Burden (Labour). Signed by 112 members.

That this House expresses its deep concern at the disappearance of the BBC correspondent in Gaza, Alan Johnston; applauds the tenacity and professionalism of Mr Johnston's regular reports from Gaza over the past three years highlighting both political developments in the area and the humanitarian crisis facing the Palestinian people; believes that the abduction is illegal and unacceptable and that it undermines the efforts of all those working for justice for the Palestinians both in the Middle East and internationally; welcomes the expressions of support for Mr Johnston by Palestinian journalists and the efforts of the Palestinian Authority, Palestinian political parties and non-governmental organisations, and all those in the international community who are working for his release; and calls for Mr Johnston's immediate and unconditional safe return to his colleagues, friends and family.

Signatures by party: Labour 70, Liberal Democrat 24, Conservative 7, Social Democratic and Labour Party 3, DUP 2, Plaid Cymru 2, Independent Labour 1, Respect 1, Scottish National Party 1, UUP 1.