asked Her Majesty's Government:

What discussions they have had recently with the Government of the United States concerning the formation of a viable, independent state of Palestine including east Jerusalem. [HL3524]

My right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary is in regular contact with the US as well as other international partners to discuss ways to move the peace process forward. We, and the US, want to see the creation of a two-state solution and an end to violence.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What discussions they have had with the Government of Israel concerning financial support for industrial units near the security barrier between Israel and the Occupied Territories. [HL3525]

The UK has spoken to both the Israelis and Palestinians about industrial parks in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Our Ambassador in Tel Aviv discussed the issue with Israeli Government officials in December 2006 and more recently with Palestinian and Israeli businessmen on 7 May. Whilst we welcome any proposals which seek to support Palestinian economic development, there are a number of sensitive questions around industrial parks including security, location and upholding environmental and labour standards. Further development of the proposals on industrial parks is dependent on agreement on these points between, amongst others, the relevant Palestinian and Israeli parties.