SUPPORT FOR BEDOUIN VILLAGERS IN THE NEGEV

Early day motion 728, tabled 28 November 2016 by Tommy Sheppard (Scottish National Party). Signed by 49 members.

That this House is gravely concerned at plans by the Israeli government to demolish the Israeli-Arab village, Umm al-Hiran, in the Negev area of Israel; notes with dismay that it reportedly intends to evict the 500 Bedouin residents of the village, which has existed for nearly 60 years, with the aim of establishing a new, Jewish-only settlement named Hiran in its stead; considers that the Bedouin villagers are full citizens of Israel but are being treated as though they have no rights; further notes the reports that the Israeli government plans to charge the villagers for the cost of the demolition of their own homes; understands that village leaders say there is no need to evict them as the Jewish settlers can move onto a site next door and live as neighbours; and calls on the Israeli government to cease its harsh and unnecessary actions immediately.

Signatures by party: Scottish National Party 29, Labour 8, Social Democratic and Labour Party 3, Conservative 2, Liberal Democrat 2, Plaid Cymru 2, DUP 1, Green 1, Labour/Co-operative 1.