David Cameron is being urged to conduct a thorough examination of British aid to Palestine amid concerns that it may inadvertently support payouts to the wives of terrorist "martyrs". The Palestinian Authority, which governs the West Bank, reportedly spends millions each year on a controversial practice referred to as "pay for slay". This "Martyrs Fund" provides monthly stipends to terrorists and the families of deceased terrorists who engage in politically motivated violence against Israel. Campaigners argue that while the UK claims its aid does not go directly to the fund, Western assistance for essential services effectively frees up resources for these payments.

Full Audit of UK Aid Needed

Independent peer Ian Austin has called on the new Foreign Secretary, David Cameron, to conduct a comprehensive audit of UK aid. Austin argues that while ministers assert they no longer directly fund the Palestinian Authority, it is crucial to ensure that not a single penny is used to promote extremism or support the "pay to slay" scheme. The UK has provided an additional £60 million in aid to the Occupied Palestinian territories since the outbreak of the conflict, in addition to the £27 million already committed for this year.

Concerns Raised by British-Israeli Rabbi

Rabbi Leo Dee, a British-Israeli whose wife and daughters were murdered by Hamas in the West Bank, has warned that the UK is effectively funding its enemies. Dee claimed that the families of the terrorists responsible for the attack will receive around a million dollars per family over the next four decades. He described the situation as the largest terrorist incentive scheme ever created, funded by the West.

Foreign Office Denies Aid Connection

A spokesperson for the Foreign Office has insisted that no UK aid is used for payments to Palestinian prisoners or their families, including the Martyrs Fund. The spokesperson added that UK aid undergoes stringent oversight to minimize the risk of diversion.