We got in touch with Island MP Andrew Turner yesterday to find out how he felt about the killing of those on the aid flotilla. Below is what we heard back today – Ed.
I believe that Israel is completely wrong to seek to block humanitarian aid to Gaza and I have made that very clear in the past.
The full facts of the incident that happened yesterday are not known at present, but Israeli forces should clearly not have boarded ships in International waters in this manner and a full independent investigation is needed to find out what went on.
I was in touch several times with the Foreign Office yesterday to try to find out whether Peter was involved in the incident. They had no information yesterday that indicated that Peter was involved in the fighting or was in any way harmed. I very much hope that is the case and I have asked to be kept informed of any developments. This morning I understand it is finally becoming clear that there were no British fatalities. That is clearly good news although I am very sad about the loss of life and injuries – whichever nationalities are involved.
The House of Commons sits tomorrow and I will get in touch directly with Foreign Office Ministers to see what they can do to ensure Peter’s safe return to the UK as soon as possible.
In March, before the Flotilla set sail I asked the Foreign Office and the Ministry of Defence what steps they would take to ensure the safety of the Free Gaza flotilla and whether they would use the assets of the Royal Navy to protect them. I received the following answer.
Mr. Ivan Lewis: Vessels in international waters enjoy the right of freedom of navigation. However, the Government strongly advise against any travel to Gaza at this time. Humanitarian aid workers and other essential specialist staff needing to travel to Gaza should co-ordinate their entry to Gaza with the major international humanitarian organisations already on the ground. The Government also regularly lobby the Israeli Government to increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
If, despite this advice, ‘Free Gaza’ decide to travel to Gaza, they do so at their own risk. They should review their security arrangements and seek professional security advice on whether they are adequate. They should register with our consular office in Gaza. The level of consular assistance the FCO can provide is extremely limited.
