“Does the Policy & Resources Committee agree that, in exercising its legitimate rights to self defence and in seeking the release of the hostages, the State of Israel is obligated to comply with international humanitarian law (the law of armed conflict); and that both sides in the conflict should be seeking an immediate and sustained ceasefire to allow the pursuit of a peaceful two state solution?” 

In response Deputy Lyndon Trott provided the following answer: 

“First and foremost, this is a terrible situation with awful consequences for innocent people. At a human level, the Committee members have the deepest concern and sympathies with people of all ages who are killed, injured, subjected to sexual violence, hurt, displaced, suffering or otherwise caught up in any conflict.  

“On 10th October 2023, the then P&R Committee made a statement solely in relation to condemning the Hamas terrorist attack of 7th October in Israel. I know that that was not a statement or comment about the complicated history of the region and the foundation of Israel, nor about any future events that might follow.  It was a statement of solidarity against acts of terrorism.    

“Due to the centuries-old constitutional relationship with the British Crown and the consequent responsibilities of the UK Government for Guernsey’s formal international relations and defence matters, it is not appropriate for Guernsey’s government or parliament to make any statement which contradicts UK foreign policy. That is a longstanding principle which will continue to be followed. The Committee is somewhat encouraged that, in recent weeks, more jurisdictions and organisations seem to be seeking urgent paths to provide humanitarian aid and ways to secure lasting peace.  

“The Committee knows that there are some strong views within Guernsey about the current situation. It values freedom of expression, but also expects people to respect others and their views and beliefs. Everyone in Guernsey should be able to feel safe, secure and respected and we are committed to ensuring that this continues to be the case.” 

The Q&A led to several supplementary questions in today's [21 February] debate, querying Guernsey’s ability to make a stance separate to the UK and whether the use of the word “unequivocally” in the first instance could’ve led to misunderstandings. 

Deputy Trott said it’s clear that the former P&R were only stating that they stand equivocally against acts of terrorism.