A lasting and sustainable peace between Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) is one of the government's key foreign policy goals. We are committed to helping the Palestinians establish a viable democratic state. And we are keen to tackle the sense of despair and helplessness that can so easily undermine the prospects for a peaceful solution.

The UK, through the Department for International Development (DfID), and in co-operation with our international partners, works to support the PA in its efforts to improve its institutional infrastructure. Strong and accountable institutions will make the PA a more viable and legitimate body, one better able to tackle the social, economic and law and order problems present in the occupied territories. In addition our aid, through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), provides primary healthcare and educational facilities for Palestinian refugees.

Since 2001, the UK has spent £147 million on its Palestinian Programme. In 2005-2006, the UK plans to spend around £60.4 million. Around £30 million of this will be in the form of bilateral assistance. The remainder works to assist the Palestinians and the PA via our contribution to the EU.

For a more detailed breakdown of where the UK targets its financial support click on the links on the right.