§ 18. Mr. John EvansTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the effect renewed diplomatic relations with Syria will have on prospects for the release of British hostages held in the Lebanon.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggSyria is an important regional power with a strong influence in Lebanon. On the resumption of diplomatic relations the Syrians undertook to continue their strenuous efforts to obtain the release of western, including British, hostages in Lebanon. This must contribute towards the prospects for a release. Our own efforts will of course remain unremitting.