Conservative Party Investigates Former MP’s Comments on Israel Advocacy Group

The Conservative Party has launched an investigation into former Foreign Office Minister Sir Alan Duncan over his remarks concerning the Conservative Friends of Israel advocacy group.

In an interview, Duncan called for the removal of peers Tom Tugendhat and Eric Pickles, along with Lord Stuart Polak, from the House of Lords over their connections with the group.

He accused certain party members like Michael Gove, Oliver Dowden, and Priti Patel of not condemning illegal Israeli settlements on Palestinian land.

Duncan criticized the CFI, suggesting they were acting in the interests of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and influencing government decisions.

He specifically called for the expulsion of Lord Polak and Lord Pickles, describing them as exerting undue influence on governmental processes.

The Board of Deputies of British Jews and the Campaign Against Antisemitism condemned Duncan’s comments for implying dual loyalties and invoking antisemitic tropes.

The Conservative Party confirmed they are investigating Sir Alan Duncan’s conduct following his statements on LBC.

The CFI clarified that they support the UK government’s efforts towards a two-state solution and peaceful resolution in the Middle East conflict.