HL Deb 05 May 1999 vol 600 c90WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they consider that the refusal of the Turkish authorities to discuss greater autonomy for the Kurdish areas of Turkey may have results similar to those now seen in Kosovo as a result of the Yugoslav Government's refusal to discuss greater autonomy for the Kosovars; and whether they consider that crisis prevention procedures should be set in motion. [HL2165]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

We have consistently urged the Turkish authorities to address the social and economic problems of south-east Turkey and the aspirations of the Kurdish community there, if lasting peace is to return to the region.

We do not believe there are simple comparisons to be drawn between the situation in Kosovo and other situations such as that in south-east Turkey.