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Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench) on Tuesday, 15 October 2019, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 29 October 2019. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Tuesday, 29 October 2019 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Syria: British Nationals Abroad

Question

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they intend to immediately repatriate the children and widows of British citizens or residents in Syria, who wish to return to the UK; and if not, why not.

Answer

As a matter of general policy, we provide consular assistance to British Nationals not UK residents. The UK has no consular presence within Syria from which to provide assistance. This makes it difficult to help but we will take a case-by-case approach to any requests for assistance. Outside of Syria, we would of course respond to requests for consular assistance regarding British children, subject to national security concerns.

Our advice to any British national abroad who needs emergency help from the British Government is to contact the nearest British Embassy or Consulate, which in this case will be outside Syria. If a minor is unable to do so, a request can be made on their behalf. British nationals can also call the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in London 24 hours a day 7 days a week. The number is clearly advertised on FCO Syria Travel Advice pages.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL109
Session
2019-19
Related items
Subjects
Children British nationals abroad Widowed people Repatriation Syria
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk