I would like to start by stating that both the UK Government and I remain committed to achieving a two-state solution to the conflict in the region. Indeed, I believe that It is the only way to secure a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable, sovereign Palestinian state and thus ensuring that both the Israeli and Palestinian people can live in peace.

Regarding the issue of Israeli settlement activity, I would like to assure you that it has long been the UK position that it is illegal under international law. Settlement activity undermines the viability of the principle of two states for two peoples. 

Furthermore, demolitions and evictions of Palestinians from their homes cause unnecessary suffering, call into question Israel's commitment to a viable two-state solution and, in all but exceptional cases, are contrary to International Humanitarian Law.

I know that my colleagues in Government are also particularly concerned about Palestinian children detained in Israeli prisons. In 2012, the Foreign Office funded and facilitated the independent report on Children in Military Custody by leading British lawyers. Since its publication, Ministers and our Ambassador to Israel have strongly urged the recommendations of the report to be implemented. The Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office with responsibility for the Middle East, the Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP, raised the issue of children in detention with Israeli authorities when he visited the region in August.