Dozens of Members of Parliament and peers have called on the government to formally apologise for Britain's actions during its administration of Palestine between 1917 and 1948. The demand follows a 400-page legal petition submitted by the Britain Owes Palestine campaign, which alleges unlawful conduct and war crimes during the period of British rule.

The petition, written by leading King's Counsel, argues that Britain failed to recognise Arab self-determination, lacked proper legal authority for the Balfour Declaration and subsequent mandate, and committed serious violations including murder, torture, arbitrary detention and mass home demolitions. Supporters say the government must confront its historical role to support present-day peace efforts.

Campaigners, including legal scholars and Palestinian philanthropist Munib Al-Masri, are seeking a formal public apology and discussions about reparative measures such as education initiatives and memorials. The Foreign Office has said it does not routinely comment on petitions.