Aylesbury MP Rob Butler joins prayers at Aylesbury Mosque for Eid

Rob said: “I was very pleased to join the congregations at Aylesbury mosque today to mark Eid al-Fitr at the end of Ramadan.

"For the second year running, coronavirus restrictions have brought significant changes to the way the month of fasting is normally marked, and gatherings of family and friends have not been possible.

“I was glad to have the opportunity to thank people face to face for the sacrifices they have made to combat the virus. This builds on the excellent contribution the mosque

has made in recent months, notably as a vaccination hub and a centre for providing meals for NHS workers.

“This was also an opportunity to reassure the local Muslim community that I share their concerns over the evictions of Palestinians from their homes in East Jerusalem, and that I understand their anguish over events at Al-Aqsa mosque.

"Nonetheless, I strongly believe that violence is not the answer to the current crisis and that both sides must de-escalate immediately. I was glad to be able to outline the many steps being taken by the UK government both here and in Israel to try to achieve a peaceful outcome, and achieve progress towards a two-state solution.

“Eid is a time for reflection and contemplation, and I hope it will herald a period of calm; a moment for diplomacy and negotiation.

“I wish all members of the Muslim community a peaceful and blessed time – Eid Mubarak.”