Pray and Vote

1.                         Should “God” or “Judeo-Christian heritage” be specifically mentioned in the Lisbon treaty? Please motivate your answer.

The EU is a secular organisation. It is therefore neither possible nor desirable to mention specific religions, however big their role, in the Lisbon Treaty. However, it is clear that people of all faiths - as well as atheists - have their place in the EU. The EU's commitment to respect for and dialogue with religious as well as non-confessional organisations is explicitly laid down in the Lisbon Treaty.

2.                         Do you consider anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism a problem in Europe today? What will your party do to combat anti-Semitism and to foster better relations between Europe and Israel?

Unfortunately, there is still anti-Semitism in Europe today. I and my party will continue to stand up against it.

3.                         What do you consider to be Israel’s most important challenge now and in the future?

The biggest challenge for Israel is to find a lasting peace with Palestine. The EU must continue to help to facilitate the peace processes wherever we can. The first priority must be the removal of the barriers and the reconstruction of Gaza.

4.                         How will your party deal with the nuclear threat from Iran? Should the EU engage in dialogue with Hamas and/or Hizbollah?

The EU and the UN must continue to work to stop Iran developing nuclear weapons. This means talking to all parties, including Hamas and Hizbollah.

5.                         How should the free trade agreement between Europe and Israel be developed

The association agreement between Europe and Israel should only be developed if Israel shows more respect for human rights.