Rotherham Council’s Cabinet has responded to six recommendations by its Overview and Scrutiny Management Board.
Informed by a series of meetings with the authors of a petition presented to Council in February 2024, calling on it to commit to a permanent ceasefire and promote peace in Palestine and in the region.
The Council resolved to receive the petition and had noted; that the principles set out in the petition publicly condemning the human rights violations being conducted and the calling on the UK Government for a permanent ceasefire be adopted; and that the petition be referred to the OSMB to look further at what actions could be considered.
Cabinet has made clear that the Council condemns human rights violations, with Council Leader Cllr Chris Read saying: “The petition on Gaza is one of the biggest petitions that Rotherham Council has ever received, which demonstrates the strength of feeling about this subject.”
“In line with the request of thousands of residents, councillors publicly condemn the Israeli government’s human rights violations and demands that the UK Government call for a permanent cease fire in Gaza. We all hope for a speedy de-escalation of the violence in the Middle East, with the return of hostages to their homes and families, and a lasting settlement that allows people of all faiths and nationalities to live securely alongside each other in peace.”
Cabinet noted the restrictions placed on local authorities in respect of the factors which they may take into account when procuring goods or services under Section 17 of the 1988 Local Government Act. It also noted that the Council could not implement a recommendation to prioritise human rights and equality in Rotherham’s international relations, especially for the Palestinian people, as international relations fall to central rather than local government.
Cabinet noted that the Council no longer has active twinning arrangements, and it is not recommended that these recommence.
Cabinet also noted the strength of Rotherham’s local communities in supporting communities in need around the world. This includes promoting values such as human rights and equality which the Council supports.
Council officers are now considering recommendations on publishing details of any formal associations with the Israeli government and any links with any companies named in the Human Rights Council’s list as part of the Council’s visible supply chain.
The Council will fly the Palestinian flag on 29 November 2024 on the UN International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The Council flew the Israeli flag after the October 7th attacks last year, in response to a direct request from Government.