Turkey (Hansard, 7 December 1983)

§ 10. Ms. Clare Short
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what report he has received from the British consulate in Istanbul about the outcome of the trial of a member of the Turkish Peace Association.

§ Mr. Whitney
Her Majesty's consulate-general in Istanbul has reported that 23 of the defendants were found guilty of offences under the Turkish penal code. Eighteen received sentences of eight years' imprisonment and five sentences of five years' imprisonment. The remaining five defendants were released.

§ Ms. Short
Will the Government use their influence and close relationship with the Turkish regime to demand the release of these innocent people who have done no more than advocate disarmament and ask whether it is helpful to Turkey to be a member of NATO, especially as many of them are old, frail and sick? Will the Government cease to defend this brutal and repressive regime just because it is a member of NATO and cease to apply double standards in relation to Turkey?

§ Mr. Whitney
The hon. Lady will be aware that appeals have been lodged in these cases and, therefore, they are sub judice. The Government have consistently made clear to the Turkish authorities our concern, and that of the British people, about continuing allegations of violations of human rights. However, it is not normal practice for the Government formally to intervene with the Government of another country on behalf of that country's citizens.

§ Mr. Healey
On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. The hon. Gentleman suggested that because a legal case was being heard in another country no comment should be made upon it in this House. That is surely totally contrary to the practice of this House.

§ Mr. Speaker
I do not think that it would be sub judice for us.

§ Mr. Boyes
Will the Minister consider the possibility of taking economic and political sanctions against Turkey, particularly on military exports, until these prisoners have been released?

§ Mr. Whitney
Our views on violations of human rights in Turkey and elsewhere have been made clear, and we take what seems to be useful and effective action. I do not think that the hon. Gentleman's proposition would be so effective.