We have written to our MP, Matt Bishop, about the situation in Gaza and have had this response...

Dated 5th February 2026

Thank you for writing to me with your concerns about the situation in Gaza. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of correspondence I receive on this matter, I am unable to respond to all of these on a case-by-case basis. However, I do read as many as I can, and I thank you for sharing these with me.  
 
 The situation in Gaza over the last two years has been intolerable, and I appreciate the time, care, and personal reflections you, along with many other constituents, have shared. I understand how distressing and important this issue is to you, and I take these concerns seriously.   
 
 I was pleased when Israel and Hamas signed the ceasefire agreement last year, and that hostages and prisoners were released on both sides. This felt like the beginning of the end of the conflict, but I have been shocked and saddened to hear about further Israeli strikes on Gaza. This is unacceptable, and we must ensure that the ceasefire sticks and all the necessary steps are taken to reach a peaceful two-state solution. The loss of life over the past two years has been inexcusable, and we all know that this situation is beyond justification.  
 
 Last October, the Parliamentary Under Secretary for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Hamish Falconer, outlined how the Government's “immediate priority is to ensure the unrestricted flow of aid into Gaza.” He also stressed how international NGOs must be permitted to operate in Gaza to provide the urgent support that is needed. The Government is working to support phase 2 of the Peace Plan.
 
 The Government has outlined that it is “essential that all parties build on the peace plan” and that it will play “a leading role in accelerating Gaza’s reconstruction”. The government has also provided £116 million for humanitarian and other aid in the area, including healthcare, food, clean water and sanitation this fiscal year.  

 I do want to clarify that I have consistently supported efforts to end the violence, ensure humanitarian aid reaches civilians, and work towards a just and lasting peace grounded in international law. Our Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have been working with international partners to get aid into Gaza, secure a ceasefire, stop arms sales which could be used in the conflict, release hostages and prisoners, and sanction Israeli ministers. I welcome this approach and appreciate their efforts to put an end to the devastation that has gone on for far too long. There is more to be done, but I support their efforts so far. The UK must continue playing an active diplomatic role, alongside international partners, to secure a lasting peace.  
 
Given the limited resources available to reply to correspondence on this matter on a case-by-case basis, and the fast-moving nature of the situation in the region, please note that I will not be able to continue corresponding on this issue after sharing my position — unless there is a significant change in government policy.   

 Despite this, I appreciate you getting in touch with me to share your concerns. Your views matter to me, and I always appreciate hearing your thoughts.  
 
 Thank you again for taking the time to write to me. 
 
Yours sincerely,
 
 

Matt Bishop MP
Member of Parliament for the Forest of Dean
House of Commons, Palace of Westminster, London SW1A 0AA 
 

REPORT BACK FROM GAZA WITH SURGEON NICK MAYNARD.

YORKLEY COMMUNITY HALL.15TH MAY 2026 6.30PM.

2 Bailey Hill, Yorkley, Lydney GL15 4RS