Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench) on Monday, 10 July 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 July 2023. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 24 July 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Syria: Refugees

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government whether they will consult the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees on ways to prevent compulsory deportations of Syrians from Turkey and Lebanon.

Answer: We are in regular contact with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on the full range of issues relating to Syrian refugees in not just Turkey and Lebanon, but also across the region. Whilst we hope that Syrian refugees will ultimately be able to return home, we agree with the UN judgement that conditions in Syria do not currently allow this. The UK continues to work with UNHCR to ensure that any returns adhere to international standards and are safe, voluntary and dignified.

Secondary information