Woolas appeals to envoy to halt action

AN Oldham MP today called for Israel to halt military action and to engage in political talks to try to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis as the death toll in Gaza tops 900.

Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Phil Woolas has written to Israel’s Ambassador Ron Proser setting out the concerns of communities across the town.

The letter reads: “I have received a very significant number of representations from across my constituency about the current crisis.

“I should emphasise that the opposition to the military action by Israel is broad-based across the area, the social classes and from people of all faiths and none.

“My constituents and I have been horrified by the reports of innocent people including children being killed by the military action of your Government. This is not only appalling but counterproductive.”

Mr Woolas said he strongly supports the policy of the British Government to achieve a two state solution to the conflict.

Mr Woolas’s call comes after more than 100 MPs piled pressure on the Prime Minister to act after the death of more than 920 Palestinians.

Three former Cabinet ministers — Andrew Smith, Frank Dobson and Clare Short — are also among the signatories to the statement.

And local Liberal Democrats are calling for an immediate Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

Elwyn Watkins, Lib-Dem Parliamentary spokesman for Oldham East & Saddleworth is calling for a suspension of a new co-operation agreement between the EU and Israel and to end arms sales. Britain’s arms export approvals to Israel have risen from £6 million in 2007 to £20 million in the first three months of 2008.