Green MSP, Patrick Harvie calls on government to boycott Israel

Parliament Gaza protestors arrested

Posted on November 22, 2012

Responding to the arrest of a group of pro-Palestinian protestors on the roof of the Scottish Parliament, Scottish Green MSPs have called on the Scottish Government to join the global movement for boycotts, divestment and sanctions in support of Palestinians.

Earlier this week the Greens lodged a parliamentary motion on Gaza condemning the Israeli missile attacks and calling for both sides to respect their obligations under international law. (1)

Patrick Harvie MSP said:

“There are many issues which are so powerful and urgent that non-violent direct action becomes a justified, and even necessary part of the response. I believe that there are many people in Scotland who want our country to stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine, and who feel particular revulsion at the number of Gazans killed in recent days.

“I know there will be those in Parliament who feel that the demonstration was an inconvenience, but the real issue is the long history of brutal and illegal occupation carried out by the Israeli Government. The world must come together to end this injustice, and I call on the Scottish Government to join the global movement for boycotts, divestment and sanctions as called for by the Palestinians.”

Notes

1. Alison Johnstone’s motion can be read here.