§ Mr. NellistTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his assessment of the level of human rights violations in Syria; how many political prisoners are currently estimated to be held by the Assad regime; of those, how many are alleged to have been tortured; what is the Government's current policy regarding the sales of arms or high technology to Syria; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggWe are well aware of the public concern about human rights in Syria and allegations of torture. The resumption of relations enables us to raise these matters with the Syrians. We will play our part in underlining international concern. EC measures continue to apply to the sale of weapons and related items to Syria.