asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on United Kingdom policy with regard to the conflict between the United Nations intervention force in Lebanon and the Israeli defence force in Southern Lebanon.

We have noted with concern reports of recent incidents between the French contingent of the United Nations intervention force in Lebanon and Israeli forces. We value and admire the United Nations intervention force in Lebanon's efforts to prevent violence in difficult circumstances. The civilian population in Lebanon have suffered grievously from many years of conflict. During the process of Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon it is essential that Israel and all others concerned should work with the United Nations intervention force in Lebanon to restore peace and normality.