Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the interim government of Syria; and what steps they are taking to work with allies to maintain stability in that country.

The Foreign Secretary visited Damascus on 5 July, to renew UK-Syria relations and reiterate UK support to the new Syrian Government as it seeks to rebuild the economy and deliver an inclusive political transition. A stable Syria is in the UK's interest and we have committed an additional £94.5 million of funding to provide urgent humanitarian aid, and support for Syria's longer-term recovery through education and livelihoods. We also lifted sanctions on some sectors, to help facilitate essential investment. Alongside allies, we continue to advocate and offer support for an inclusive political transition which protects the rights of all Syrians.