Hundreds attend 'Solidarity for Palestine' march in Keswick
Protesters gathered in Keswick town centre on Sunday morning to protest against Israel's war against Gaza.
Fiona Goldie of the Palestine Solidarity Group Carlisle and District was one of the speakers who urged the audience to write to their MP's to 'ensure they know that we want strong action not just harsh words'.
Lord Campbell-Savours attended, representing his son Markus, who is the MP for Penrith and Solway.
The protest came a few days after Markus called for an 'immediate recognition' of a Palestinian state and a full suspension of military and intelligence support to Israel.
'I can no longer remain silent as the harrowing images flood social media and television: maimed and starving civilians, parents mourning their dead children, communities clawing through rubble,' said Markus.
''It is difficult not to feel angry that the Prime Minister, the leader of my party, continues to equivocate on Palestinian statehood. This is not a bargaining chip in negotiations. This is not a trade deal. This is a genocide.
'Our attempts at constructive diplomacy have failed. We've not even managed to get food to the starving.
'I am calling for our government to act decisively. Broad sanctions — not symbolic gestures. A full suspension of military and intelligence support. A boycott of Israeli goods. An international coalition to control the flow of aid. And immediate recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state, as pledged in the Labour Party manifesto and promised to those who elected me.'
Environmental campaigner, Jeff Thomson, who is one of Markus Campbell-Savours constituents, said: 'It is encouraging our MP has made a firm stance and bold statement in support of the people of Palestine who are experiencing untold suffering.'
READ MORE: 15-week crackdown on illegal use of e-bikes across Cumbria | News and Star
Sir Keir announced earlier this week that the UK could take the step of recognising Palestine in September ahead of a gathering at the UN.
The UK will only refrain from doing so if Israel allows more aid into Gaza, stops annexing land in the West Bank, agrees to a ceasefire, and signs up to a long-term peace process over the next two month, the PM said.
Israel insists its military operation in Gaza is justified as part of the war on terror in the wake of the October 7 massacre.
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