Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench) on Tuesday, 22 October 2019, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 5 November 2019. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 4 November 2019 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Turkey: Syria

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they intend to make to the government of Turkey about ensuring that its auxiliary militias comply fully with current, and any future, ceasefires in Syria.

Answer: The Prime Minister spoke to President Erdogan on 12 and 20 October to express our opposition to the Turkish military operation and urge an end to the action. Dr Murrison met the Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister, Sedat Önal, on 26 October and urged restraint on the part of Turkish forces and their proxies. We therefore welcome the fact that the ceasefire is holding and that Turkey has confirmed there are no plans for a further offensive, involving its military forces and Turkish-backed groups. The Foreign Secretary has also conveyed UK concern to his Turkish counterpart.

Secondary information