Westminster MP Mohammad Sarwar has requested an emergency recall of Parliament to discuss the Middle East crisis. ‘There is enormous anger among my constituents because the Prime Minister, Tony Blair, has failed to call for a cease fire, especially after the Qana incident. People expected him to condemn Israel but he has failed us.’

Thirty MPs joined Mr Sarwar, who represents Glasgow Central, in the approach to Foreign Secretary, Margaret Beckett. Under the Standing Orders of the House of Commons, only a Minister can make a request to The Speaker of the House to recall Parliament during a recess. It is up to the discretion of The Speaker whether or not he instigates an emergency recall.

The crisis has affected many people in the Southside who have family and friends in that part of the world.
(See story - Family flees bombs).

The charity Islamic Relief will hold a fundraising dinner for the Middle East Crisis on Tuesday 15 August at 7pm in the Central Mosque Community Hall, Gorbals. Tickets £10. Book via 0141 423 3929.