The UK has formally recognised Palestine in order to “protect the viability of a two-state solution” according to the government. “This historic decision reflects the Government's manifesto commitment to a two-state solution, ending the war in Gaza, building a lasting peace for all peoples and actively safeguarding the two-state solution, which is essential for both Israelis and Palestinians. Carlisle MP, Julie Minns said she ‘strongly supported’ the decision by Sir Keir Starmer. It has also caused political pressure for Sir Keir, both from his own backbenchers and from the electoral challenge posed by pro-Palestine independents, who took Labour scalps at the general election. MP for Penrith and the Solway, Markus Campbell-Savours had previously called for the UK to recognise the state of Palestine.