§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will oppose the choice for Turkey as host for the summit meeting of the Organisation of Security and Co-operation in Europe until such time as significant improvements in human rights have been implemented, notably concerning rights to life and limb and freedom of expression and association. [HL1376]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanHer Majesty's Government are ready to join consensus within the OSCE in favour of Istanbul as the venue for the organisation's next summit. The Government believe that holding the summit there would draw attention to Turkey's human rights record and help advance the OSCE's dialogue with Turkey on human rights.
§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they have studied the letter dated 24 February to the Prime Minister of Turkey from the United States Congressional Commission on Security and Co-operation in Europe (published 3 March); and, if so, what conclusions they draw from it. [HL1378]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanWe have not seen the letter referred to by the noble Lord, but are aware of the Commission's concerns about Turkey's human rights record and doubts about her suitability to host the next summit of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe. I refer the noble Lord to my Answer to his question HL1376.