Game changer?

The MP's remarks have been dotted with discussion of whether the vote itself, which is legally non-binding, will make any difference.

During a speech by former foreign minister and Labour Party MP Jack Straw, one politician intervened: "This is a backbench motion, it has no effect on government policy and it is therefore futile.

Straw shot back: "We represent the people of Britain," if this motion goes through it will make a difference."

Jack Straw went on to remind MPs that Barack Obama, in his speech to the UN a year ago, looked forward to welcoming "an independent sovereign state of Palestine" as a new member of the world body by September 2011.

In a letter to MPs last month Straw wrote: 

"I'm as firm as anyone about Israel's right to security, as a sovereign state. We all understand the fears that Israelis have for their security, but it will not enhance their security to deny the right of self-determination permanently to the Palestinians. The World Bank, the UN, the EU and the IMF have all assessed the progress of the Palestinian Authority and judged it to be ready for statehood."

Labour MP Sir Gerald Kaufman said it would be a "game changer" if parliament passed the motion.

"The recognition of Palestine by the House of Commons will affect the international situation," said Kaufman.

"This House can create a historic new situation and I call on members on both sides of the House to give the Palestinians their rights and show the Israelis that they cannot suppress another people all the time."