Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what recent reports he has received on the treatment of Christians in Syria.

We follow the situation in Syria closely, including the situation for minorities. We recognise the situation is desperate for many communities across the country, including Christians. A number of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the independent UN Commission of Inquiry have highlighted the dangers facing Christians and other minorities at the hands of Daesh.

We condemn in the strongest terms the atrocities committed by Daesh against all civilians, including Christians and other minorities, as well as the majority Muslim population in Syria. Ultimately, the best way of safeguarding minority rights in the region is by defeating Daesh and establishing peace and stability in the region. The UK has been at the forefront of these efforts, and has a comprehensive strategy to deal with Daesh.

The UK believes that a transition away from the Asad regime is needed to bring about a sustainable peace in Syria which allows the protection of all Syrians, including minorities.