The UK Foreign Office is facing criticism after reports revealed that no official minutes were kept for a private meeting held last December between Yvette Cooper and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair regarding Middle East issues.
The meeting reportedly took place at a time when Blair was supporting U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace” initiative for Gaza.
According to reports, the UK Foreign Office failed to maintain written records or minutes of the discussions, raising concerns among transparency experts and political observers. One government transparency expert described the absence of documentation as “deeply concerning” saying important diplomatic discussions involving senior officials should be properly recorded for accountability.
The controversy has drawn attention because Blair has reportedly played a behind the scenes role in international discussions related to post-war governance and reconstruction plans for Gaza. Recent reports have linked Blair to proposals involving a “Board of Peace” aimed at overseeing future peace and administrative arrangements in Gaza.
Critics argue that failing to document meetings involving senior government officials and sensitive foreign policy matters undermines transparency standards within government institutions. Questions have also been raised about the extent of Blair’s unofficial diplomatic involvement in Middle East affairs.
The UK Foreign Office reportedly defended its position by stating that not every meeting requires formal minutes, but the issue has continued to trigger political debate and public scrutiny.
