May this politician’s initial bravery inspire others across the world:
“Finance Minister Kristin Halvorsen withdrew her support for the action following intense criticism from fellow politicians, Israel and the US. But she insisted the decision to make the public apology was entirely her choice.
“She told Norwegian television: ‘I regret that I supported the initiative to boycott Israel. It was my mistake as a member of government to make a political statement in a way that opposes the policy of the majority of the government.'”
Such behaviour worked to end apartheid in South Africa, and may well have the same effect in Israel.
UPDATE: The US government is not happy with Norway:
“US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice threatened Norway with ‘serious political consequences’ after Finance Minister and Socialist Left Party leader Kristin Halvorsen admitted to supporting a boycott of Israeli goods.
“The reaction was reportedly given to the Norwegian embassy in Washington DC, and it was made clear that the statements came from the top level of the US State Department, newspaper VG reports.”