Agenda

To consider any questions from members of the public under Procedure Rule 10.

To consider any questions from Members under Procedure Rule 11.

To consider any motions received under Procedure Rule 12.

(a)  Ban on Arms Sales to Israel, immediate Unconditional Ceasefire 

      and Compliance with International Criminal Court and

      International Court of Justice Rulings

For nearly a year, Blackburn with Darwen residents have gathered in solidarity, protesting the ongoing conflict in Gaza.  Many have expressed deep concerns to their local representatives, urging action to stop arms sales to Israel and calling for an immediate ceasefire.

The trauma from witnessing the devastation in Palestine has deeply affected our communities, leading to a rise in Islamophobia and Anti-Semitism.  As a Council, we must listen to our residents and press the government to work towards lasting peace and justice.

Airstrikes have continued and intensified the humanitarian crisis, causing significant civilian casualties, including children, and further escalating the situation.  These actions are part of what the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and global human rights organisations have confirmed as genocide, with Israel’s policies in occupied Palestinian territories violating international law, including illegal settlements and systematic oppression.  The humanitarian crisis demands urgent international intervention.

This Council calls on the government to:

Revoke all arms export licenses to Israel and suspend future sales.

Advocate for an unconditional ceasefire and prioritise the protection of civilians.

Increase diplomatic pressure to halt illegal settlements and resume peace talks, in line with the ICJ rulings.

Support international investigations into human rights violations, including the confirmed genocide and war crimes.

Welcome and comply with the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu, Yoav Gallant and Mohammed Deif.

Facilitate peace talks that respect the security and rights of both Palestinians and Israelis, while holding all parties accountable to international legal standards.

The Council further requests that:

The Chief Executive and Leader of the Council write to the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary to halt arms sales, call for an immediate ceasefire, and ensure adherence to international law, including compliance with ICJ and ICC rulings.

The Council resolves to support humanitarian aid efforts, foster local dialogue to counter hate, and back peaceful initiatives that promote justice and long-term peace for both sides of the conflict.

Additionally, the Council urges the government to review trade agreements with companies involved in illegal activities in the region, ensure no complicity in acts of genocide, and increase humanitarian support for Gaza’s civilians.

To be moved by Councillor Salim Sidat

Seconded by Councillor Mustafa Desai

(b)  Council Tax

At Prime Ministers Questions on 13^th November Keir Starmer was non-committal when asked by the Leader of the Opposition to confirm if he would keep the cap on Council Tax.

This failure to rule out changes came amid fiscal reforms rolled out by the Chancellor during the Autumn Budget.

Downing Street has since said that the 5% cap will remain, this is three times the current rate of inflation; and if fully enacted by councils will add to the financial pressures being felt by households.  Whilst this was a definite statement of intent it will not inspire public confidence given  ...  view the full agenda text for item 8.

To consider the attached Year Planner for 2025/26.