FIRST Minister John Swinney discussed the “need to end conflict” in Gaza and allow humanitarian assistance during a meeting with Keir Starmer.
The Prime Minister held talks with devolved First Ministers in London on Friday, at the latest gathering of the Council of Nations and Regions.
It comes after Starmer condemned Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s “egregious” actions in Gaza.
In a joint statement with French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian premier Mark Carney on Tuesday, the PM called for a halt to Israel’s military offensive and an end to restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Starmer also warned that the UK and allies will take “concrete actions” unless he changes course.
Netanyahu responded by claiming that by criticising him, saying the leaders “want Hamas to remain in power”.
Ahead of the summit in London, Swinney said there must be a UK-wide mission to raise living standards.
Following the meeting, which included political leaders from Wales, Northern Ireland, and London and English metro mayors, the Scottish Government said several topics were discussed.
“The First Minister held talks with the Prime Minister where they discussed key issues, including tackling child poverty, migration and growing the economy - not least by investing in Grangemouth, carbon capture and Project Acorn,” a spokesperson said.
“The First Minister also met the First Minister of Wales and the First Minister and deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland to discuss areas of common concern.”
Swinney has previously condemned Israel’s blockade of vital humanitarian aid into Gaza, saying history will “judge harshly” on the country for inflicting prolonged suffering on the territory.
He also called for an immediate and sustained ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, along with the unimpeded access for humanitarian aid, and for the end to licenced arms exports to Israel.
It comes after food security experts said the Gaza Strip is at critical risk of famine if Israel does not lift its blockade and stop its military campaign.
On Wednesday, Netanyahu said that all of Gaza will be under Israel's control by the end of its offensive in the territory.
“At the end of this campaign, all of the territories of the Gaza Strip will be under Israel’s security control,” he told journalists.
And, we told how the UK Government sent a spy plane to surveil Gaza just hours after Foreign Secretary David Lammy described Israel’s actions in the region as “monstrous”.
