THE latest Government decision not to back a Palestine state is shameful. No doubt public opinion forced the abstention!

But despite its despicable stance and huge US pressure, the vote passed them by, 138 to nine with 41 abstentions.

Some countries are totally out of touch with their own populace (not Israel, maybe) and the large majority of countries in the world.

The reason apparently is the positive vote would stall the peace process – what peace process, I ask? To put conditions on Palestine while Israel breaks international law every day is to condone and support a colonising state.

The historical UN vote has upset the occupiers and their friends – job done, I’d say!

No doubt there will be retaliation over this democratic decision, particularly those who voted positively.

Hopefully this vote will help an eventual “two state” solution but I won’t hold my breath. Expect more stalling as more Palestinian land disappears!

TIM SIRET, Millmoor Crescent, Eynsham