Carmichael backs Palestinian family visa scheme for Gaza conflict

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has spoken out in a parliamentary debate to back calls for the government to create a Palestinian family visa scheme for Palestinian people affected by the conflict in Gaza. 

Campaigners for the scheme have argued that the Government previously introduced successful bespoke visa pathways for those fleeing persecution in Ukraine and Hong Kong, and argue that the same should be done for Palestinians from Gaza. The debate in Parliament on the issue on Monday evening was secured by a public petition of over 100,000 signatures.

Speaking in the debate, Mr Carmichael said:

“I have to say that Orkney and Shetland do not boast the same range of ethnic diversity as Bolton, but I have been quite overwhelmed by the number of emails I have received on this. 

“I think the lesson we have to take from that is that the British people as a whole, whatever the ethnic background or heritage that they may have see people in harm’s way, and want to help them – and that is why there is the scale of support that there is for a visa scheme of this sort.”

Responding, the MP for Bolton North East, Mark Logan said:

“I thank the Right Honourable Member, and I may say that if there were a scheme to come out in the future to welcome Palestinians, there may be a challenge between the Member and my good self, to house a Palestinian, and I would be very proud to do so if such a programme existed.”

Speaking after the debate, Mr Carmichael said:

“Members from across Parliament have come together in unison to call for a family reunion scheme for Palestinians suffering in this terrible conflict. It is deeply disappointing that the minister refused to engage seriously with these proposals.

“People from all corners of the UK volunteered two years ago to host Ukrainians fleeing Putin’s invasion. The ask here is nowhere near as extensive as that – simply for those Palestinians who already have a family connection in the UK. We are a welcoming country – it is time the government reflected that reality.”