UK Conservative MP sacked after calling for Gaza cease-fire

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - Paul Bristow, a Conservative member of the UK parliament, was dismissed from his post as a parliamentary private secretary after publicly advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza.

Bristow, an aide to secretary of state for science, innovation and technology, had written a letter to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, urging a "permanent" end to the hostilities between Israel and Hamas.

The decision to remove Bristow from his position came in response to comments that were deemed "not consistent with the principles of collective responsibility," 10 Downing Street said, according to state media.

Bristow, who represents Peterborough in parliament, expressed understanding about Sunak's decision.

"I completely understand the PM's decision. And it is with regret I leave a job I enjoyed. But I can now talk openly about an issue so many of my constituents care deeply about," he told the BBC.

"I believe I can do this better from the backbenches rather than as part of the government payroll."

Israel widened its air and ground attacks on the Gaza Strip over the weekend, which has been under relentless airstrikes since the surprise offensive by Hamas on Oct. 7.