LGBTI: Human Rights Conference

Lord Campbell of Pittenweem Excerpts
Monday 21st March 2016

(8 years, 2 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Campbell of Pittenweem Portrait Lord Campbell of Pittenweem (LD)
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It is comforting to hear the noble Baroness commit the Government to human rights. Can we be certain that when it comes to considering the application of Turkey for membership of the European Union there will be a similar, wholehearted commitment, all in accordance with the Copenhagen criteria?

Baroness Anelay of St Johns Portrait Baroness Anelay of St Johns
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The noble Lord makes an extremely important point. We have made it clear to Turkey that accession to the European Union comes only to those countries that abide by human rights rules. Of course, Turkey would have to do that. We are concerned about some of the human rights violations which have taken place, particularly with regard to freedom of expression. My right honourable friend the Prime Minister made that clear at recent meetings.