§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received on the continued presence in Lebanon of Syrian and Israeli armed forces. [25971]
§ Mr. FatchettOur Embassy in Beirut provides regular reporting on the Israeli and Syrian presence in Lebanon. Our assessment is that Lebanon will only be able to assume full control over its own affairs after a comprehensive peace settlement in the region. We are playing a full part in efforts to bring about such a settlement.
§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make it his policy to use the presidency of the EU to encourage the withdrawal of Syrian and Israeli armed forces from Lebanese territory; and if he will make a statement. [25970]
§ Mr. FatchettThe European Union has consistently expressed full support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon, and has consistently called for full implementation of UNSCR 425, which requires the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.
This Government are playing a full part in efforts to achieve a comprehensive peace in the region that would enable Lebanon to assume full control over its own affairs.