HL Deb 19 December 2002 vol 642 cc138-9WA
Lord Janner of Braunstone

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will seek assurances from President Assad of Syria that he will (a) take all measures within his power to shut down terrorist bases and training camps in Syria and (b) curb the terrorist activities of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Hezbollah; and [HL612]

What consultations they have had with President Assad of Syria to bring about peace in the Middle East. [HL613]

Barones Amos

My right honourable friend the Prime Minister and President Al-Assad discussed international efforts towards peace in the Middle East, including progress with the Quartet's Roadmap. The Prime Minister made clear his commitment to a solution based on two States, Israel and Palestine, living alongside each other in peace and security.

The Prime Minister reiterated his total condemnation of acts of terrorism, including suicide attacks. He strongly urged a change in Syrian attitudes to the presence of Palestinian rejectionist groups in Syria. The Foreign Secretary also discussed the presence of these groups in Syria with Foreign Minister Shara'a, asking what Syria proposed to do to change the behaviour of these groups.

Lord Janner of Braunstone

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the current state of British-Syrian relations in the light of President Assad's visit to the United Kingdom. [HL614]

Baroness Amos

UK/Syrian relations are important. Both sides are willing to invest time and effort in improving them. While we would not pretend to agree on every issue, we cannot attempt to resolve disagreements without dialogue. A candid dialogue is better than no dialogue at all.

Lord Janner of Braunstone

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Why President Assad of Syria will meet (a) Her Majesty the Queen in Buckingham Palace and (b) the Prince of Wales. [HL615]

Baroness Amos

it is customary for a head of state, on an official visit to the United Kingdom, to have an audience with the Queen if Her Majesty is available. On this occasion a call on the Prince of Wales also seemed appropriate. President and Mrs Al-Assad have an interest in the Prince of Wales' charitable works, in particular the Prince's Trust.