asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs, in view of his recent representations to the various national authorities who might assist in the release of Brian Keenan, if he will give an account of the progress of those inquiries; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Release of Brian Keenan.
73.
Since I assured the House on 20 July that I would do what I could to resolve the sad matter of Brian Keenan I have had a meeting with one of his sisters. On that occasion I discussed the case with her in some detail and assured her of my personal commitment.
While at the United Nations last month, I raised the matter with the Foreign Ministers of Iran, Syria and Algeria as well as with the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the representative of the Palestine Liberation Organisation. I also discussed the subject of Mr. Keenan with the US Deputy Secretary of State when I was in Washington. I briefed them all and sought their assistance in obtaining information regarding Mr. Keenan's whereabouts and well being and in securing his release. All assured me of their goodwill in the matter and promised to make inquiries. I am awaiting the results of these inquiries. I should add that, in my statement to the General Assembly of the United Nations, I made an appeal to Mr. Keenan's captors, calling for his release.
Earlier this month our Ambassador to the Lebanon, acting on my instructions, visited Beirut. He renewed contact with political representatives and leaders of various Muslim groups and discussed Brian Keenan's case with them. Unfortunately, despite these discussions, he received no new information about Mr. Keenan's welfare or whereabouts.
The House can be confident that I will continue my efforts to secure the early release of Brian Keenan.