City of London Corporation to comply with Israeli settlement sanctions

The City of London Corporation has confirmed it will comply with any sanctions introduced by the government concerning Israeli West Bank settlements. This statement follows a call from a City official to demonstrate a commitment to Palestinians comparable to that shown towards Ukraine.

Deputy Chris Hayward, the Corporation's Policy Chair, announced the authority's intention to follow government directives. He also confirmed a financial contribution to a Middle East humanitarian appeal fund, established after conflict erupted in late 2023.

Government Sanctions and Corporation Response

The Foreign Secretary, Ed Miliband, announced new sanctions on September 8, which aim to ban goods and services associated with the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. These settlements are considered illegal under international law, a view disputed by the Israeli government.

During a Court of Common Council meeting on October 8, Common Councillor Munsur Ali questioned the Corporation's public acknowledgment and support for these new measures, asking if it would match the commitment previously shown for Ukraine. In March 2022, the Corporation had condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine and donated £250,000 to the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) for humanitarian relief.

Deputy Hayward stated that the government's revised position and legislative intent regarding the settlements are clear. "As with Ukraine, I can of course confirm that we will comply with any forthcoming legislation and sanctions that the Government may introduce," he told the court. He added that the Corporation's focus is on humanitarian response, citing the donation to the DEC Middle East Humanitarian Appeal.

Debate on Remit and Free Speech

Councillor Ali also inquired about steps to prevent the Corporation's funds, including the Pension Fund and City's Estate, from being exposed to companies involved in settlement expansion. He also asked how the Corporation would assist firms in the Square Mile in preparing for the new measures.

In response, Deputy Hayward indicated that officers regularly engage with fund managers, assuring that firms will be prepared for compliance. However, Common Councillor Philip Kelvin argued that foreign policy falls outside the Corporation's remit, suggesting such questions were a "whim" and a poor use of court time.

Deputy Hayward acknowledged the sensitive nature of the Middle East conflict for members but reiterated a desire to focus on issues within the Corporation's jurisdiction. Common Councillor Mark Wheatley cautioned against restricting members' ability to raise questions, stating that if a member can demonstrate a connection to the City, they should be allowed to proceed.

Deputy Hayward concluded by stating that free speech cannot be gagged, but urged members to frame subject matter responsibly. He also joined Deputy Tom Sleigh in condemning hate marches, calling them an unproductive approach to complex geopolitical issues.

What Happens Next

The City of London Corporation will now await the introduction of specific government legislation and sanctions regarding Israeli West Bank settlements. The authority has confirmed its intention to comply with these measures.