We, the undersigned, are writing to express our utter disappointment at the visit and meeting of Mr. Brooks Newmark MP with President Bashar Al Assad in Damascus this week. We are equally disappointmed at the lack of judgment from the Foreign Office in allowing such a visit even if it was not funded by the taxpayer. Any politician would surely understand that, under the current circumstances, such a visit cannot be labeled as “personal” or “non-government affiliated”. This was clearly visible by the propaganda coverage by Syrian State TV, where the visit was paraded as a diplomatic dialogue between the two countries. Furthermore, the Syrian regime showcased the event in a way which implied that the British Government is supporting Mr. Assad. Quite frankly, we believe it is extraordinary that an MP meets with a man who is accused of crimes against his people as grave as those of Mr. Assad. When ministers (whose salaries are paid by the tax payer) go off independently and meet with dictators, it raises the question of who is in control of British foreign policy. If the so called private discussion had any purpose other than to support the Syrian regime why did it not take place over the telephone? Why weren’t the diplomatic channels through corresponding embassies used? Such visit can only appear to have a single aim; to prop up Mr. Assad both inside and outside of Syria. The British Governing system is based on democratic principles, exactly the same principles that the brave people of Syria are risking their lives for each time they take to the streets, write an article or even update their status on social media. Mr. Newmark’s visit is a complete betrayal to the British public as well as to the tens of thousands of the victims of the Syrian regime’s crackdown on peaceful protests. On a final note we wish to remind you that the regime with which Mr. Newmark went to talk with, is the same regime that a few days ago stated that they have “deleted” Europe from their maps. We look forward to your speedy response and explanation of this grave lack of judgement on behalf of the British Government. Yours Sincerely

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