GUILDFORD MP CONDEMNS ISTANBUL ATTACKS

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 20th Nov 2003

Reacting to the news of the terrorist attacks on the British consulate and the HSBC Bank headquarters, Guildford MP Sue Doughty said:

"I am shocked at the news of the appalling terrorist attacks in Istanbul today, just days after the bombing of an Istanbul synagogue. My sympathy goes to all the victims of the attack and to those waiting for news who may face the loss or injury of family or friends.

"We must stand by Turkey and let them know that Britain will support them in defending their people against the terrorist threat and will help them recover from the devastating attacks of today and Saturday."

"For all the security in London this week, the attacks are a reminder that the terrorists will strike wherever and whenever they can. We must strengthen our relations with the people in Arab and Islamic countries, as the terrorists have as little regard for their lives as for they do for the lives of people in Western countries like Britain".