VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Gaza: Hostage Taking

Asked by Matt VickersConservativeForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 11 June 2025UIN 55372

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what diplomatic steps he is taking to help secure the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

Answered by Mr Hamish Falconer

Since day one, this Government has been clear that we need to see an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages cruelly detained by Hamas, better protection of civilians, significantly more aid consistently entering Gaza, and a path to long-term peace and stability. The remaining hostages must be released and the way to return them safely is through a deal. All parties must re-engage with negotiations to get hostages out. The Foreign Secretary has visited Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories three times since taking office and has pressed for a resolution, to secure a ceasefire and see the return of hostages.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim