§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations his Department received about the treatment by the Turkish police of supporters of Manchester United football club at the time of the club's recent European cup match in Turkey; what replies were given; what subsequent action was taken by Her Majesty's Government in regard to complaints of violence used by Turkish police officers against the club's supporters and some of its players; how many people from Manchester complained of maltreatment by Turkish police officers and how many of them were charged with an offence; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryMy hon. Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs first raised our concern over events surrounding the football match, particularly those leading to British fans being detained, with the Turkish ambassador on 8 November. Our ambassador in Ankara also pressed the Turkish authorities for an early report. We have now sent the Turkish ambassador detailed allegations of mistreatment of British fans and tourists and asked for the Turkish authorities' comments.
I am glad to say that the six fans who were detained were unconditionally released on 30 November and that the Turkish authorities are to hold a judicial inquiry into the events.