Statement by Rt Hon. Tony Blair:
“I welcome the decision by the Israeli Prime Minister and Government to release these funds. It is absolutely the right decision both for the improvement of the conditions of Palestinians on the ground and for Israel.
“The tax revenues are a vital part of the PA budget, and without these monies, the stability of the Palestinian economy is put at risk.
“It is essential that all parties show restraint and responsibility in the coming weeks so that we can move the engagement between the Israelis and Palestinians forward in a fruitful and productive manner.
“I hope this will be the first of many steps, on both sides, that will mean we can work with renewed vigour to create the conditions for proper negotiations as we progress towards a two state solution.”