JENNY TONGE MP TRAPPED FOLLOWING ISRAELI AIR STRIKES

5.38.26pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 10th Jun 2003

Dr Jenny Tonge, MP for Richmond Park and Liberal Democrat Shadow International Development Secretary, has today been in Gaza City with Christian Aid and local NGOs to look at the humanitarian crisis and agricultural restrictions in the area.

The group were due to leave the area this afternoon but have been left stranded by the Israeli attacks on Hamas leader Abdel Aziz Rantissi.

Commenting Dr Tonge said: "The Israeli government's attack, so close to Gaza's main hospital, is deeply worrying. "

"Medical supplies are already extremely low, further undermining the Palestinian Authority's ability to look after its people.

"The policy of settlements and land destruction is placing an intolerable strain upon the Palestinian people. "

"Unless both sides fulfil the obligations set out in the Road Map there will be no escape from this escalating spiral of violence." "

"ENDS "

"Notes to editors: As soon as the border is reopened again, Dr Tonge and Christian Aid staff will leave for the West Bank. They arrived in Israel yesterday (Monday) and will return to the UK on Sunday."

"To contact the MPs in Gaza call Dominic Nutt on: 0207 523 2427 or 07720 467680.