§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations have recently been made to the Government of Turkey on the question of human rights; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. ChalkerIn recent years, Turkey has made considerable progress towards the full restoration of human rights and democracy. We take every appropriate opportunity to raise this subject with the Turkish Government and in particular to express our concern over the mass trials. My right hon. and learned Friend last raised these issues with the Turkish Minister responsible for legislative affairs during his visit to London on 18 December 1986. He assured my right hon. and learned Friend that progress would continue.
§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations Her Majesty's Government have made to the Turkish Government following the recent DISK trials.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThe recent verdicts in the DISK trial, which were announced on 24 December, are subject to appeal and the matter is therefore still before the courts. In these circumstances it would not be appropriate to comment. We have however made clear to the Turkish authorities on several occasions our general concern about the mass trials.