The Member of Parliament, Sir Oliver Dowden MP recently spoke in Parliament to question the Foreign Secretary on actions the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) will be taking to assist UK nationals, including Hertsmere residents, who are stranded in Israel. 

Sir Oliver has been contacted by many constituents who are in Israel and unable to return home due to a cancellation of all flights due to ongoing unrest in the region.  

Sir Oliver said: ‘I've been contacted by a significant number of my constituents who are currently stranded in Israel, unable to leave because of the lack of return flights to the United Kingdom. This includes a constituent with significant medical needs. Can I urge the Foreign Secretary to further strengthen the Foreign Office's offer?

 I do welcome the advice they're now providing in relation to routes back to the UK, although I know it has taken some time for that to happen. But can he also update the House on what contingency plans the Foreign Office and government more generally, is undertaking for repatriation should the situation deteriorate further and that be required? And are they registering details of UK nationals in Israel to that end?’

In response, The Foreign Secretary stated that the FCDO is asking all UK nationals in Israel to register their presence in the region so that they can be quickly updated. The Foreign Secretary has provided assurances that a rapid force of diplomats has been sent to borders, particularly the Jordanian border, to facilitate exit by land. 

To watch Sir Oliver’s question to the Foreign Secretary, you can visit: https://www.facebook.com/oliverdowdenhertsmere/videos/688001370771292 

If any constituents require any assistance, then please do get in touch with my office directly at [email protected], or 02072193415.