BYM lobbies government on Gaza and integrity

‘This change of government is an opportunity to rebuild.'

Britain Yearly Meeting (BYM) joined twenty-two other signatories last week in congratulating Keir Starmer on his appointment as prime minister. The letter also urged him to tell the House of Commons that all ministers and MPs must follow the Nolan Principles of standards in public life, and that he should act decisively on any breaches.

The civil society groups, including Shelter and Refugee Action, encouraged Keir Starmer to put in place the new Ethics and Integrity Commission and other steps promised in the Labour manifesto.

Paul Parker, recording clerk for BYM, said: ‘This change of government is an opportunity to rebuild trust in our democracy and we urge the prime minister to stand by his promise to “clean up” public life.’

BYM also joined seventeen other UK charities outlining the key steps the new government must take in its first 100 days to address the conflict in Gaza. Agencies working in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel – including Bond and Christian Aid – welcomed the new government’s manifesto commitment to upholding international law, and to a ceasefire in Gaza, along with a rapid increase in aid and the safe release of all hostages.

They also urged ‘bold and decisive action’ from the UK government, including an immediate halt to arms transfers to Israel’s government. The UK government should use political leverage to compel Israel to lift its long-term blockade of Gaza and ensure access for aid workers and aid across all areas, they said.

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