Hague: Our Israel policy will not change

By Robyn Rosen, November 26, 2010

William Hague has denied he will withdraw support from Israel to gain Arab trade ties.

The Foreign Secretary, William Hague, has denied claims that British foreign policy will change to reflect Arab concerns over the Middle East.

The Daily Telegraph reported yesterday that Whitehall officials had said that Mr Hague decided to “take on board” Arab foreign policy goals in an effort to secure better diplomatic and trade ties.

It speculated that the decision would mean further withdrawal of traditional British support for Israel.

But Mr Hague, who visited Israel earlier this month, denied there had been any change.

He said: “There has been no change in the government’s policy. We are working to develop relations with the Gulf states across the board but this is not at the expense of Israel or anyone else.

“It is not a zero sum game. Our foreign policy will always be made in the UK’s national interest.”