To ask Her Majesty's Government why the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, David Miliband, met the Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs, Avigdor Liberman, but has not been willing to meet elected members of Hamas. [HL3915]

We would welcome constructive dialogue with Hamas, if they renounce violence, recognise the state of Israel and adhere to previously made agreements. However we believe that to talk to Hamas directly at this time, when they remain committed to violence and refuse to recognise Israel, would simply undermine President Abbas and those Palestinians who are committed to peace.

The Arab League has mandated Egypt to communicate with Hamas. We are in regular contact with both the Arab League and Egypt.