§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether, in the interests of free and fair elections due in April 1999, they will discuss with the Government of Turkey the release of recently arrested lawyers and members and employees of legitimate political parties. [HL1283]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanWe have raised the intimidation of members and employees of the People's Democracy Party (HADEP) with the Turkish authorities on numerous occasions. We are concerned at the continuing reports of arrests and harassment of HADEP party officials and supporters. We are closely monitoring the case against HADEP in the Turkish Constitutional Court. We will continue to reiterate to the Turkish authorities the importance the international community attaches to the treatment of democratic parties pursuing their policies by peaceful means.