To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps her Department has taken to secure the release of the captured BBC correspondent Alan Johnston; and if she will make a statement. (136523)

We remain actively engaged in efforts to secure the release of Alan Johnston. We are in close touch with the BBC and Alan’s family. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

We are working closely with the Palestinian Authority. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and I have spoken to Palestinian President Abbas, and the British Consul-General in Jerusalem has met President Abbas and Prime Minister Haniya.

We are extremely concerned by the kidnap of Alan Johnston. We have called for his unconditional release and continue to do so.