§ Lord Turnbergasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is the nature and extent of the build-up of arms, including short and medium range rockets, in southern Lebanon.[HL2102]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanWe are aware of media reports, but are not in a position to verify the nature or extent of any arms build-up in South Lebanon. The UN Secretary-General reported to the Security Council on 14 January that "There were some improvements in, and new construction of, field fortifications by Hizbollah". Given tension in the region, we continue to urge all parties, including Hizbollah, to respect the UN Blue Line and refrain from actions which might inflame the situation.