The UK Government has urged Turkey to respect the human rights of all its citizens, in response to a parliamentary question on the freedom of the press in the country.

Theresa Villiers, a Conservative MP for North London had tabled a written question to Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab asking whether he would make representations to his Turkish counterpart on the protection of press freedom in Turkey.

Ms Villiers and her fellow north London Conservative MP Matthew Offord, had also sent a letter to Mr Raab highlighting specific cases of journalists criticising the Turkish government who are now facing charges.

Responding to the question, Foreign Minister Wendy Morton, who is a European Neighbourhood Minister, noted that the UK Government “regularly raises” its human rights concerns with the Turkish authorities at the highest level, including on freedom of expression.

“We will continue to engage the Turkish Government on these important issues, and to urge respect for freedom and protection of the media. We are clear in our expectation that Turkey, like all countries, should live up to its human rights obligations towards all sections of society,” added the Minister.