Written question asked by Lord Chidgey (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Howell of Guildford (Conservative) on Thursday, 9 June 2011.

Syria

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what action they are considering in partnership with international partners to address the recent unrest in Syria.

Answer: The UK has circulated a draft UN Security Council Resolution condemning the repression in Syria and calling for the Syrian Government to meet their people's legitimate demands, release all prisoners of conscience, lift restrictions on the media and internet and co-operate with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. A resolution is not in our gift and needs the support of nine UN Security Council members and no vetoes. We are working to persuade other countries that the Security Council has a responsibility to speak out. This follows our successful efforts to agree EU sanctions against President Assad and other individuals responsible for the violence and repression in Syria. We are exploring with our European partners the potential for further sanctions if the violence continues.

Secondary information