London: A minor opposition party in the British parliament on Sunday threatened to bring forward legislation on recognising Palestinian statehood and force a vote if Prime Minister Keir Starmer continues to oppose the move. The Scottish National Party (SNP), which advocates for the independence of Scotland, announced its intention to table a Palestine Recognition Bill when parliament resumes after its summer recess, should Starmer not alter his current stance.
According to Nam News Network, the prime minister has committed to recognising Palestinian statehood but has insisted that it must be part of a broader peace process in the Middle East. The SNP's call for action underscores the increasing pressure on Starmer, both domestically and internationally, as opposition mounts against the ongoing conflict in Gaza amid concerns about potential mass starvation.
The SNP urged Keir Starmer to "stop defending the indefensible" and to demand an end to the war. The party emphasized the significance of France potentially becoming the first G7 country to formally recognise a Palestinian state, marking a pivotal move by a major European nation.
On Saturday, Starmer communicated with his French and German counterparts, discussing the UK's plans to airdrop aid to Gaza and evacuate sick and injured children, as stated by his office. The prime minister's actions come amidst growing demands for a clear stance on Palestinian statehood recognition.