News story

Foreign Secretary concerned by death of civilians and journalist in Homs

"These deaths highlight once again the terrible price being paid by the people of Homs, as well as the courage of journalists who take great personal risks to bring to light what is happening to the people of Syria."

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Speaking earlier, the Foreign Secretary said:

“I condemn the incident in Homs today which caused the death of at least eight civilians including a French journalist, Gilles Jacquier. I send my heartfelt condolences to all affected.

“These deaths highlight once again the terrible price being paid by the people of Homs, as well as the courage of journalists who take great personal risks to bring to light what is happening to the people of Syria.

“We support the Arab League’s efforts to stop the killing and repression. We urge the Syrian regime to implement in full its commitments to the Arab League on 2 November. It must end the violence, withdraw troops from the streets, release all detainees and engage in a meaningful dialogue with opposition groups.

“We call again on President Assad to step down and heed the will of the Syrian people.”

Published 11 January 2012