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Syria: Detainees

Asked by Edward MorelloLiberal DemocratForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 27 January 2025UIN 24788

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the heightened risk of former British national Islamic extremists escaping from the (a) al-Hol and (b) al-Roj prison camps in Syria following the downfall of Bashar al-Assad on the UK's national security.

Answered by Mr Hamish Falconer

As the present situation in Syria unfolds, we are working closely with partners to monitor any threats, including through our work with the Global Coalition Against Daesh. Our priority remains to ensure the safety and security of the UK. We will not hesitate to take action to protect the UK from those who pose a threat to our security. This can, where appropriate, include the exercise of powers to disrupt the travel to the UK, of individuals who are assessed to pose a threat.

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