Elbit Systems Contract

It is right to question the UK Government’s reported intention to award a £2 billion military training contract to Elbit Systems. This is not merely a matter of defence procurement, but a test of our country’s moral compass and our commitment to international law and human rights.

At a time when the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues, with thousands of innocent civilians already slaughtered, it is unconscionable that the UK would consider expanding its military ties with a company so closely linked to the very weapons systems used in that conflict. Such a move risks not only legitimising but materially supporting actions which may constitute breaches of international humanitarian law.

In case you are not already aware, I have consistently condemned the actions of the far-right Netanyahu government. I provide a link to previous statements here. In addition, I fully support the Liberal Democrats’ Humble Address motion, led by Ed Davey, which seeks to compel the Government to publish any legal advice it has received regarding potential breaches of international law in the Israel-Gaza war. The public has a right to know whether the Government is acting in accordance with its legal and moral obligations.

I questioned the former Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP on precisely this point last week. I have followed this matter with the new Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper MP.