Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what assessment he has made of the implications for the Government's policy on Syria of the recent decision by the US Administration to end its provision of arms to certain rebel groups in that country.

The British Government cannot comment on reports of changes in US support; these are a matter for the US. We remain committed to working for a political transition in Syria. The moderate opposition, which has demonstrated its commitment to a political settlement, is a key part of this. Through our Conflict, Stability and Security Fund programme, the UK is providing over £60 million annually to support the moderate opposition, Syrian civilians and their communities.