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The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP Deputy Leader of the Opposition Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Development

Change in Australia’s position on UN vote regarding Israeli settlement activity in the occupied territories   Today, the Foreign Minister must personally explain why the Abbott Government has changed Australia's position on a United Nations vote calling for a stop to Israeli settlement activities in the occupied territories.   

This change is something that seems to have occurred with little or no consultation.   

It's also quite extraordinary that the Government would make such a change without reporting back to the Australian people about it.  

Ongoing tension around settlements highlights the need to progress, as quickly as possible, the direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians to resolve outstanding final status issues.  

The expansion of settlements outside areas that will clearly remain part of Israel under a territorial exchange agreement undermines the prospect of a lasting peace through a two state solution.    

25 NOVEMBER 2013 SYDNEY