Brent Council has been urged to divest its pension funds from companies accused of complicity in alleged Israeli actions.
The call came from a deputation representing the Brent and Harrow Palestine Solidarity Campaign during a council meeting on Monday, September 14, 2026. The meeting agenda can be found here.
Sheila Goharsan, speaking on behalf of the campaign, presented a petition with 2,000 signatures, reiterating the urgency of divestment from companies involved in what they described as genocide, apartheid, and human rights abuses against Palestinians.
Councillor Gwen Grahl, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, acknowledged the suffering in Gaza and the West Bank. She stated that Brent Labour's manifesto committed them to greater transparency over the pension funds investments, consideration of how the UN Genocide Convention can be reflected in our investment framework, and continued work with London Civ towards divestment from companies operating in occupied territories or involved in human rights abuses.
Councillor Grahl also highlighted the Council's commitment to an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid, emphasizing that international law must apply equally to all. She added that the council has consistently supported calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid
and has been clear that the occupation of the West Bank and the expansion of illegal settlements cannot be allowed to continue.
Councillor Grahl explained that while much of the pension fund is invested through pooled vehicles, meaning Brent cannot simply instruct London CIV to sell individual investments, the Council will continue to act responsibly and lawfully within its powers. London CIV manages Brent Council's pension funds and plays a role in divestment decisions, though the process is complex due to these pooled investment vehicles. She expressed a willingness to meet with activists to discuss further actions and pressure on London CIV and other organisations.
The public reports pack for the meeting is available here.
