What discussions he has had with his counterparts in the European Union regarding the recent violence in Israel.

May I first pass on the Foreign Secretary's apologies for not being here today, as he is in Washington? I know that he has passed those on to you, Mr. Speaker, to the shadow Foreign Secretary and to Mr. Moore, who is leading for the Liberal Democrats today.

The Foreign Secretary has had recent discussions with a number of European colleagues on recent events in Israel and the occupied territories, and will hold further talks at the General Affairs and External Relations Council on 31 January. We and our European colleagues continue to condemn all violence and urge appropriate restraint by all parties.

The recent election of Abu Mazen in Palestine and the willingness of Israel to co-operate give us the best opportunity that we have had for a long time to break the dreadful cycle of suicide attacks and reprisals. May I urge the Minister to redouble his discussions with the European Union to take best advantage of the situation, so that we can make progress before any more atrocities take place and that good will is lost?

I wholly agree with the hon. Lady that we have a real opportunity. There is still too much death and hardship on both sides, but the election with a strong majority of Mr. Abu Mazen, who has a clear and unambiguous commitment against violence, is a positive step forward. We are looking forward to his visit here on 1 March so that we can show our political support for reform in the Palestinian Authority and take the process forward.

In 2004 alone, 232 Qassam rockets were fired from the Gaza strip into Israel, and there were 18 such attacks in the first two weeks of this year. Given Abu Mazen's recent welcome announcement on cracking down on terrorism in the Gaza strip, what help and assistance can the EU give to increase the security capacity of the Palestinian Authority, with specific reference to stopping the rockets being smuggled into Gaza through Egypt in the first place?

My hon. Friend highlights a key concern. It is critical that the Palestinian Authority make it abundantly clear that it will step up its security efforts to tackle the challenge. We are doing everything that we can through aid and training to bolster and support the Palestinian Authority. A real effort in tackling terrorism at the same time as the Israeli Government are making efforts to ensure that they act proportionately and with due regard for civilian life, although we recognise their right to defend themselves, provide us with the best opportunity to move forward.

Does the hon. Gentleman recall that much equipment sent by the European Union over the past two or three years has been destroyed during incursions by Israelis into the west bank, for whatever reason? That has included computer, air traffic control and hospital equipment. Has he held discussions with his European counterparts about replacing that equipment, and if so, when does he expect replacements to be delivered?

The contributions that both we and the European Union are making to bolster the security effort of the Palestinian Authority are ongoing, and we maintain that commitment. I appreciate what the hon. Gentleman says, and such actions have been regrettable. Nevertheless, there are still significant resources in the Palestinian Authority, especially manpower, and it is crucial for it to use that, with our support, to tackle terrorism and beef up its security efforts.

What action will be taken against Iran and Syria, which continue to back attacks on Israeli citizens, such as the rocket attack that killed a teenager in Sederot in Israel last week?

We have consistently urged all neighbours in the region to desist from supporting terrorist attacks, and we will continue to make that abundantly clear. Both sides must make a real effort to tackle terrorism. The statements made thus far by Mr. Abu Mazen present a real opportunity, so it is crucial to take that forward.