...we know that you favor supporting terrorists, the Taliban, how you deal with this situation will be a measure of your leadership.
PM, Liberals demand Davies resignation
Video: NDP deputy leader faces backlash over Israel comments
Harper wants NDP MP booted
Last Updated: June 15, 2010 6:37pm
In the House of Commons Tuesday, Harper urged NDP Leader Jack Layton sack the veteran Vancouver MP and "unequivocally distance himself" from her comments.
Davies was caught on tape suggesting the occupation of Palestinian territories began in 1948 ‹ the year of Israel's independence ‹ and expressed personal support for a campaign to boycott and sanction the country.
"This is a fundamental denial of Israel's right to exist. It repeats the kinds of comments that were made by (American White House journalist) Helen Thomas on which she was forced to resign, and the member of the NDP who said that should be forced to resign as well," Harper said.
Liberal MP and foreign affairs critic Bob Rae also condemned the remarks.
"To deny the state of Israel's right to exist and to propose an international campaign of boycotts, divestments and sanctions against a legitimate member of the world community for over 60 years is to reveal a level of hostility and ignorance that is truly breathtaking," he said.
NDP Leader Jack Layton said Davies had issued a clarification after making a "serious mistake" about the date.
"She has never and our party has never nor would we ever deny that Israel has not only a right to exist, but a right to exist in secure borders in a safe context," he said.
kathleen.harris@sunmedia.ca
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