House of Commons denies plan to fly Palestinian flag at parliament

Criticising the decision, Iain Mansfield, the director of research at thinktank Policy Exchange said: “This is baffling behaviour by the Speaker. The UK does not recognise the state of Palestine.

“Should the Speaker be committing the entire House of Commons to such a controversial position on the current conflict? Is Speaker-led diplomacy really appropriate in this case? It is hardly impartial.

“Mr Speaker has serious questions to answer - not least from the many Parliamentarians who may not share his views.”

Later on Friday, a House of Commons spokesman claimed that Zomlot had never been due to visit at all.

“A routine internal planning email was sent in error,” they said.

"We can confirm no meeting with the Palestinian Ambassador is scheduled to take place.”