§ Mr. AmessTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action Her Majesty's Government will take to urge the Turkish authorities to withdraw their requirement that, apart from regularly scheduled worship services, the Armenian orthodox church obtains special written permission for any function or meeting held in church facilities with more than 10 people in attendance. [17773]
§ Mr. David DavisThe Turkish public order decrees which require notification in advance of gatherings over a certain size apply generally and are not directed specifically at the Armenian orthodox church.
§ Mr. AmessTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action Her Majesty's Government will take to urge the Turkish authorities to allow the Armenian orthodox church in Turkey to hold its representative assembly so that it can elect delegates to participate in the election for the Supreme Patriarch in Armenia. [17772]
§ Mr. David DavisOur consulate-general in Istanbul discussed this with the Turkish authorities and with representatives of the Armenian orthodox church. The church has now decided not to hold the assembly. The views of the Armenian orthodox church in Turkey will be represented at the elections for the Supreme Patriarch by a number of bishops chosen by the Ecumenical Patriarch of Istanbul.