Turkey

Oral Answers to Questions — Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 7 December 1983.

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Photo of Clare Short Clare Short , Birmingham, Ladywood 12:00, 7 December 1983

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what report he has received from the British consulate in Istanbul about the outcome of the trial of a member of the Turkish Peace Association.

Photo of Sir Ray Whitney Sir Ray Whitney , Wycombe

Her Majesty's consulate-general in Istanbul has reported that 23 of the defendants were found guilty of offences under the Turkish penal code. Eighteen received sentences of eight years' imprisonment and five sentences of five years' imprisonment. The remaining five defendants were released.

Photo of Clare Short Clare Short , Birmingham, Ladywood

Will the Government use their influence and close relationship with the Turkish regime to demand the release of these innocent people who have done no more than advocate disarmament and ask whether it is helpful to Turkey to be a member of NATO, especially as many of them are old, frail and sick? Will the Government cease to defend this brutal and repressive regime just because it is a member of NATO and cease to apply double standards in relation to Turkey?

Photo of Sir Ray Whitney Sir Ray Whitney , Wycombe

The hon. Lady will be aware that appeals have been lodged in these cases and, therefore, they are sub judice. The Government have consistently made clear to the Turkish authorities our concern, and that of the British people, about continuing allegations of violations of human rights. However, it is not normal practice for the Government formally to intervene with the Government of another country on behalf of that country's citizens.

Photo of Mr Denis Healey Mr Denis Healey , Leeds East

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. The hon. Gentleman suggested that because a legal case was being heard in another country no comment should be made upon it in this House. That is surely totally contrary to the practice of this House.

Photo of Mr Bernard Weatherill Mr Bernard Weatherill , Croydon North East

I do not think that it would be sub judice for us.

Photo of Mr Roland Boyes Mr Roland Boyes , Houghton and Washington

Will the Minister consider the possibility of taking economic and political sanctions against Turkey, particularly on military exports, until these prisoners have been released?

Photo of Sir Ray Whitney Sir Ray Whitney , Wycombe

Our views on violations of human rights in Turkey and elsewhere have been made clear, and we take what seems to be useful and effective action. I do not think that the hon. Gentleman's proposition would be so effective.