News / Politics
Green councillors call for ceasefire in Gaza
Green councillors in Bristol have called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and for the UK to end its arms trade with Israel.
A motion due to be debated at the next full council meeting also calls for Avon Pension Fund, of which Bristol City Council is a member, to divest from any companies involved in attacks on Palestinians.
Shona Jemphrey, a Green councillor for Lawrence Hill who put forward the motion, said that “the scale and suffering of the people of Gaza is incomprehensible”.
is needed now More than ever
Jemphrey said: “Alone in the face of such atrocities, it’s easy to feel helpless.
“This motion is to show that collectively as a council and as a city, there are tangible actions we can take to address the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
“It is inspired by the activists that regularly come to City Hall to make their collective voice heard.
“The Green Party is listening. There must be an immediate and permanent ceasefire, and the prime minister must stop the UK’s arms trade with Israel to prevent more casualties.”
Members of the Bristol Palestine Solidarity Campaign protesting outside City Hall – photo: Hannah Massoudi
Fi Hance, a councillor for Redland and Bristol City Council’s representative on the Avon Pension Fund committee, added: “Like so many people in Bristol and across the world, I have been horrified by the events in Gaza and am in full support of this motion.
“I am already doing all I can to investigate how the Avon Pension Fund can divest from companies that are linked to this ongoing genocide.
“By passing this motion, Bristol City Council has the opportunity to add pressure to make it clear that divestment is an urgent priority.
“Whether this motion passes or falls, I will continue to look over all options and work with campaigners, other local authorities and the Avon Pension Fund to do whatever we can to make sure our investments are aligned with our values and in solidarity with the people of Gaza.”
Main photo: Green Party
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