30 June 2010
Methodist Church to boycott goods from illegal Israeli settlements
The Methodist Church has today voted to boycott all products
from Israeli settlements in the Palestinian territories, and to
encourage Methodists across Britain to do the same.
The decision is a response to a call from a group of Palestinian
Christians, a growing number of Jewish organisations, both inside
Israel and worldwide, and the World Council of Churches. A majority
of governments recognise the Israeli occupation of Palestinian
territories as illegitimate under international law.
Christine Elliott, Secretary for External Relationships, said,
"This decision has not been taken lightly, but after months of
research, careful consideration and finally, today's debate at the
Conference. The goal of the boycott is to put an end to the
existing injustice. It reflects the challenge that settlements
present to a lasting peace in the region.
"We are passionate about dialogue across communities and with
people of all faiths. We remain deeply committed to our
relationships with our brothers and sisters of other faiths, and we
look to engage in active listening so that we act as agents of hope
together."
In December, Defra introduced new advice on labelling, recommending
that packaging of products imported from the West Bank should
distinguish between Palestinian areas and Israeli
settlements.
The Conference also adopted a statement calling for a full arms
embargo against all sides in the conflict. "This conflict is
further fuelled by partisan support by other countries. Violence
from all parties in this conflict must be denounced, and a just
peace sought for all peoples living in the region," said
Christine.
The move to boycott is just one among a number of measures agreed
by the Conference, which also include a commitment to regular and
informed prayer for the needs of those in region. Methodists across
Great Britain are also encouraged to visit the region, write to
their MPs and engage in respectful dialogue with Jews and Muslims
on this issue.