We have written an Emergency Motion on the threats to democracy in Palestine & Israel. We hope to submit it to Conference next month but need support from Lib Dem Members.
The text is:
Conference notes with concern:
A. The Judicial Reforms proposed by the new Israeli Government. These will have the effect of:
a. severely curtailing Judicial Independence in Israel,
b. limiting the Israeli Supreme Court’s ability to overturn laws passed by the Knesset that conflict with Israel’s “Basic Law”,
c. dilute the role of the Attorney General in giving legal advice and
d. give Ministers more powers to act without fear of Judicial Review.
B. The continuing delay in holding elections for the Palestinian President, for the Palestinian Authority and for the Palestinian National Council.
C. The rise in violent attacks from both Israeli Security Forces and Palestinian Terrorist groups that have resulted in the deaths of civilians on both sides.
Conference furthers notes:
I. The proposed reforms will damage democracy in Israel and make achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict with the Palestinians harder.
II. The continuing Occupation of Palestinian land by Israel is harming Israel and allowing extremists to exert undue influence over the new Government.
III. The lack of democratic avenues for Palestinians to use to take control of their lives, both because of the Occupation and because of the failures of the Palestinian Authority, is helping to increase support for terror groups.
Conference calls for:
1. The Israeli Government to heed the calls to halt the implementation of the Judicial Reforms.
2. The Palestinian Authority to act promptly to enable new and free elections for both the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian Presidency in all of Occupied Palestine (and for the Israeli Government to allow Palestinian resident of East Jerusalem to participate in these elections).
3. The British Government to make it clear that enacting these Reforms will take Israel out of the family of democratic countries.
4. The British Government to recognise the State of Palestine and offer help to it to hold free and democratic elections in Palestine, including logistical support and to observer to make sure the elections are fair.
To support this motion, please add your name via the Google From here