Thank you to all those who have contacted me about the Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) Bill. I voted against the Bill at Third Reading, however it passed with Government support.

The legislation seeks to stop public bodies from adopting their own approach to foreign and trade policy – using means such as individual boycotts, divestment and sanctions (BDS) – based on their own moral or political disapproval of a foreign authority.

It is not wrong for public bodies to take ethical investment and procurement decisions. However, these must be based on principles that apply equally to all countries, rather than singling out individual nations.

The legislation is damaging because it risks undermining support for groups around the world facing persecution and places restrictions on public bodies to express a view on current and proposed policy. I am disappointed that Parliament has been unable to reach a consensus which would have avoided the most damaging elements of this Bill.

I am opposed to any discrimination or prejudice in the economic activities of public bodies and recognise the impact that selective and biased campaigns have had on the Jewish community, in particular. However, I am concerned that because the Bill treats the Occupied Palestinian Territories the same way as the State of Israel, it departs from this country’s longstanding diplomatic position and undermines support for a two-state solution. I also do not believe that the Bill is compatible with our obligations under UN Security Council resolutions and international law.

I was in favour of the reasoned amendment tabled by the Opposition at Third Reading which set out strong reasons for voting against the Bill. Crucially, I believe this Bill gives Ministers too many powers with far-reaching consequences. That is why I, along with Opposition colleagues, voted against the Bill overall at Third Reading. Despite this, it passed with Government support.