HC Deb 09 May 1990 vol 172 c177W
41. Mr. Adley

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the current state of British-Syrian relations.

82. Mr. Robert Hicks

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has any proposals to re-establish diplomatic relations with Syria; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Waldegrave

We recognise that Syria is a major regional power with an important role to play in middle east issues. The continuing absence of diplomatic relations with Damascus stems from Syrian involvement in terrorist activities. A more constructive Syrian attitude to this problem and help in the release of United Kingdom hostages in Lebanon would undoubtedly have a positive effect.