Written question asked by James Clappison (Conservative) on Tuesday, 28 November 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 30 November 2000. It was answered by Lord Hain (Labour) on Thursday, 30 November 2000 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what assessment he has made of (a) Syrian control and influence in Lebanon and (b) Syria's role in respect of terrorist violence to be directed against Israel by Hezbollah and other groups in the vicinity of the Israel-Lebanon border.

Answer: Mr. Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of (a) Syrian control and influence in Lebanon and (b) Syria's role in respect of terrorist violence to be directed against Israel by Hezbollah and other groups in the vicinity of the Israel-Lebanon border. [141092] Mr. Hain: Relations between Syria and Lebanon are a matter for their respective governments. We condemn all acts of terrorism whatever their origin, cause or motive and are also greatly concerned by any violations of either Israeli or Lebanese sovereign territory across the UN `Blue Line'. We continue to urge the Lebanese government to reestablish its control in the south and call on all parties to exercise restraint and to refrain from acts of provocation. We have encouraged Syria to use the influence it has to support regional calm.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 357 c834W; 141092
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Armed conflict Terrorism Israel Syria Middle East Hezbollah Lebanon
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk