Middle East
Brooks Newmark calls for the government to put pressure on Iran to achieve the release of Israeli soldier, Corporal Shalit - one of three Israeli soldiers abducted in summer 2006.
Mr. Brooks Newmark (Braintree) (Con): Following the question of the hon. Member for Liverpool, Riverside (Mrs. Ellman), what pressure is being put on Iran to achieve Corporal Shalit's release? It is clear that Iran is implicated in that kidnapping.
Margaret Beckett: There are many stories about who might be implicated in the different kidnappings, but it is clear to everyone concerned that it is extremely unhelpful to the prospect of restarting peace negotiations that those three Israeli soldiers continue to be detained. The process by which they were detained was undoubtedly intended to derail peace negotiations and it would be good for all concerned in the region-not least the people of Palestine, who have undergone great difficulties particularly of late-if the release were to take place soon.
