Supplementary memorandum submitted by
Oxfam
Further to Adam Leach's answer to Q90, we would
also like to put on record that we are very concerned about the
unsubstantiated accusations by the US government that the British
Muslim charity Interpal is a terrorist organisation. Interpal
were eventually cleared when no evidence was forthcoming, but
this unnecessary investigation has generated very negative publicity
for a bone fide charitable organisation and sets a dangerous precedent
for other British organisations helping poor communities in Palestine.
We would like to see HM government standing up for British NGOs
and taking a more independent line on this in future.
Further to Adam Leach's answer to Q93, in order
to achieve real change, the British government should use its
influence with the Quartet for Peace to explore alternatives to
Israeli occupation. Development aid is not enough on its own,
and should be accompanied by international protection mechanisms
that will impartially uphold rights of both Israeli and Palestinian
civilians under international humanitarian law. Only such an arrangement
can ensure an immediate cessation of violence by both sides, restore
normal economic activity, and help foster the trust and goodwill
that will be needed to reach a final settlement.
19 November 2003
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