Britain's Foreign Secretary has expressed his dismay at Israel's announcement last Friday of a new settlement at Givat Hamatos. William Hague described the Israeli step as "provocative" and "disappointing". He called upon the Israeli government to revoke its statement. In a press release from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Mr Hague added that the UK will coordinate with the EU to express their concerns to the Israelis.

"I am dismayed by the Israeli announcement on 14 October of a new settlement at Givat Hamatos," said the Foreign Secretary. "This provocative step, which further encloses East Jerusalem, is particularly disappointing given the international condemnation of the expansion of the Mordot Gilo settlement just a few weeks ago." Settlements are not only illegal under international law, Hague added, but also undermine the possibility of a two state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and those working for a sustainable peace. "I call again for these announcements to be revoked.

Together with our EU and other partners we will make very clear to the Israeli government the strength of our concern."