Written question asked by Tom Brake (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 6 February 2017, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 8 February 2017. It was answered by Tobias Ellwood (Conservative) on Monday, 13 February 2017 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Libya: Russia

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what reports he has received on whether President Putin has endorsed support for Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar to be the future leader of the Libyan state.

Answer: The UK welcomes all diplomatic efforts, in support of reconciliation in Libya within the framework of the Libyan Political Agreement (LPA) and the relevant UNSCRs. An inclusive political deal negotiated within the framework of the LPA is the best way of stabilising Libya but it is ultimately for Libyans to decide what is acceptable for them. We recognise that Khalifa Haftar has a role to play in the political process, but there can be no military solution. The LPA is clear on the need for civilian oversight of military structures.

Secondary information