Written question asked by Lord Patten (Conservative) on Monday, 9 October 2017, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 October 2017. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Thursday, 19 October 2017 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Turkey: Human Rights

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 21 September (HL1524), whether they have plans to ask the UN to conduct an independent inquiry under international law into allegations concerning torture and ill treatment in Sapatan and its surrounding villages in Turkey.

Answer: We do not have plans to ask the UN to hold such an inquiry. We regularly raise human rights issues with Turkish ministers, most recently when the Home Secretary visited Turkey in September. We consistently encourage the Turkish government to uphold the rule of law, to respect fundamental freedoms such as freedom of expression and to adhere to its international obligations. Turkey has issued a standing invitation to allow inspection visits by UN officials.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL1775
Session: 2017-19
Related items: Turkey: Human Rights
Tuesday, 7 November 2017
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Human rights United Nations Turkey
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk