Last Tuesday on 26th March there was a session in the House of Lords in the afternoon that focused on the Israel and Gaza subject and it was organised by a Government Minister who is Tariq Ahmad. A number of members of the House of Lords contributed and one of them was the Bishop of Leeds who is Nick Baines. The various items can be obtained from the session here and below is the question from Nick and his response from Tariq.

Nick Baines: My Lords, given that UN resolutions are not always seen through, as it were, or observed, is the Minister optimistic that this resolution will have the impact we want it to have? What impact will it have on countries like Russia, China and Iran continuing to supply weapons?

Tariq Ahmad: This is an important first step in the diplomacy. There has been an incredible challenge at the United Nations Security Council in getting an agreed form of words. There was a resolution about a week ago which was rejected and vetoed by Russia and China. In front of us now is an important first step in recognising that the release of hostages is necessary for a peaceful resolution. It is an important first step to ensure a ceasefire for the period of Ramadan, leading to a sustainable ceasefire and to getting aid in. If we start building on those first steps, I am hopeful. I have immense hope—one thing I have learned in life is that one should never give up hope.