Here is a copy of an email I have sent to local residents this afternoon, about the situation in Gaza. please do get in touch if you are a local resident and want to discuss this further.
The conflict and subsequent humanitarian crisis in Gaza has left over 400,000 civilians struggling to find food, water, or shelter.
That’s why the UK government has been one of the largest humanitarian aid donors to date. The Department for International Development – where I am a minister – has provided:
- £6m for basics (shelter and cooking equipment)
- £3m for healthcare
- £3m for the Rapid Response Facility
- £2m to the Disasters Emergency Committee
We have also released a further £3m for emergency food, helping around 300,000 people in serious need. This brings the total supplied by the UK to £17 million. We will remain at the forefront of the relief effort for civilians.
In terms of the conflict itself –the urgent priority of the Lib Dems in government is to help stop the bloodshed with an unconditional and immediate ceasefire and work towards a long-term sustainable peace.
Many local residents have already contacted me to express their views on the conflict. There is an understandable strength of feeling about the situation, which is causing so many people so much misery and hurt.
I take all views seriously – so if you wish to contact me about this, or any other matter, please do. I will respond and pass on any opinions to the Foreign and Defence secretaries.
P.S. You can find out further information about the work of the Department for International Development – in Gaza and other areas – here.
Lynne Featherstone 
Dear Lynne Thanks for this timely reminder that some of our taxes are going towards alleviating this terrible situation, and through your ministry.
Is it not time for your government /Nick Clegg to ask the United Nations to declare Gaza an area which should be placed under its military control and civil administration, until normality can be restored?
Very best wishes John Oakes