SIR – UK aid to the Palestinian Authority, in helping to keep the local economy alive, is in fact a force for stability and peace – not violence (Letters, June 15).

The biggest driver of violence is the occupation by Israel of the Palestinian territories.

If there were no occupation, and the Palestinians could run their own affairs, then the need for UK aid would soon dry up.

As long as the occupation continues in the West Bank and Gaza, violence will inevitably continue.

Sir Alan Duncan MP
Chairman, Conservative Middle East Council

Sir Nicholas Soames MP
President, Conservative Middle East Council
London SW1

| The Telegraph