Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Richard Quigley and Hamish Falconer

Tuesday 2nd December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Mr Richard Quigley (Isle of Wight West) (Lab)]

T5. My constituent has expressed deep concern for his family and friends in Syria who belong to a minority ethnic group and he seeks reassurance. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to ensure that all minority communities in Syria are protected?

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)]

I thank my hon. Friend for that important question. We have consistently advocated for an inclusive political transition and underlined the importance of protecting the rights of all Syrians, publicly and in our engagement with the Syrian Government. The Foreign Secretary and I were clear on UK expectations for Syria’s transition when we met Syrian Foreign Minister al-Shabani last month: the protection of the rights of all Syrians, wide consultation with Syria’s diverse communities on next steps in the transition and, of course, holding perpetrators of violence to account.

Israel-Gaza Conflict: Arrest Warrants

Debate between Richard Quigley and Hamish Falconer

Monday 25th November 2024 Commons Chamber

[Hamish Falconer]

I do agree. There is no alternative to UNRWA, and we will raise those points, both directly with Israel and in company. It is vital that UNRWA, underpinned by a succession of UN Security Council resolutions, is able to continue its vital work, both in the west bank and Gaza and across the wider region.

[Mr Richard Quigley (Isle of Wight West) (Lab)]

Can the Minister reassure us that he and other Ministers have directly pressed Israel on compliance with international humanitarian law in their meetings with their counterparts?

[Hamish Falconer]

I can. I did this morning, and I will continue to do so.