HC Deb 04 February 1980 vol 978 cc10-1W
Mr. Hooley

asked the Lord Privy Seal what representations have been made by Her Majesty's Government to the Government of Syria about the redeployment of Syrian about and artillery in the South Lebanon area.

Mr. Hurd

None. There is no evidence that Syrian forces have moved south of their existing positions. Reports of Syrian concentrations close to positions occupied by the Christian militia have not been confirmed.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Lord Privy Seal what representations have been made by Her Majesty's Government to the Government of Israel about the movement of armoured forces across the border into South Lebanon.

Mr. Hurd

None. We have no independent evidence to confirm these reports

Mr. Hooley

asked the Lord Privy Seal what attempts are being made currently by the Security Council to strengthen the United Nations Interim Force in the Labanon.

Mr. Hurd

None. The Secretary-General's report of 14 December 1979 showed that UNIFIL's force levels were in excess of its authorised ceiling and we do not believe that any further strengthening of the force is necessary at this stage. A copy of the Secretary-General's report is being placed in the Library of the House.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Lord Privy Seal what discussions have been held in the Security Council about the movement of Israeli armour into South Lebanon and the redeployment of Syrian forces in that area.

Mr. Hurd

None.