Sir Keir Starmer has announced that the UK formally recognises Palestine as a state.

The Prime Minister announced the decision in a video message on Sunday afternoon at the same time that Canada and Australia also recognised Palestinian statehood.

The move means that Palestine, which is formed of the West Bank and Gaza, is entitled to an official embassy in the UK and will be given full diplomatic rights in Britain.

Critics say it is a “reward for terrorism” and will have no immediate impact on the war in Gaza, while the families of hostages held by Hamas has said it will “complicate” the return of their relatives.

But David Lammy, the deputy prime minister, said on Sunday that it would allow the UK and Palestine to “hold out” for a two-state solution in the region.