§ Ann ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of Turkey on the shooting of the Human Rights Association Leader Akin Birdal. [42439]
§ Mr. Doug Henderson[holding answer 18 May 1998]As EU Presidency, the UK issued a declaration on behalf of the European Union on 13 May expressing shock and dismay at the shooting of Mr. Akin Birdal, condemning this cowardly attack on the Chairman of the Human Rights Association, and strongly supporting statements of the Turkish authorities that every effort would be made to bring to justice those responsible.
My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary made clear the importance we attach to the proper protection of human rights during his visit to Ankara on 19 May. He took the opportunity to visit Mr. Birdal in hospital to emphasise our support for the work of the Human Rights Association.