Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government in what ways they provide communications equipment or other practical support to the Free Syrian Army; and what assurance they can give that such support is not utilised by extremist groups.

We have provided life-saving equipment, including communications, medical and logistics equipment, and equipment to protect against chemical weapons attacks to some groups. All recipients of such assistance are rigorously and regularly assessed to make sure that they are not involved in any extremist activity or human rights abuses. Many of the groups fighting the Asad regime are affiliated to the opposition umbrella organisation the High Negotiations Committee, which has set out a moderate and constructive vision for political transition, including respect for human rights and protection of all components of Syrian society.