The new British Government will be really honest in dealing with the issue of Armenian Genocide, said Geoffrey Robertson, a human rights lawyer, visiting professor at Queen Mary, University of London, and the author of the “Was there an Armenian Genocide” studies.

As a former judge for the UN, he made a clear appraisal of the 1915 events. When considering the facts and resolution on genocide, it becomes obvious the Genocide was committed. Legally speaking, the fact cannot be disputed, Robertson said.

According to the lawyer, the United Kingdom has denied the Armenian Genocide for many years, giving unfounded reasons. Moreover, without conducting serious research, Foreign and Commonwealth Office repeatedly advised the leaders, parliamentarians not to recognize the Armenia Genocide and not to attend any remembrance of the event.

Robertson is optimistic about the new Government. He pointed out a positive attitude and support by the Conservatives, and particularly Liberal Democrats. The Liberal Democrats’ steps deserve respect, particularly due to Lord Avebury, for years led the parliamentary initiative to recognize the Genocide recognition. Baroness Caroline Cox, a Conservative, always backed the recognition of the Armenian Genocide. Geoffrey Robertson hopes the Foreign and Commonwealth Office will give more explanations, as the Conservatives deem foreign relations ethics highly important. Certainly the authorities will not want to upset Turkey, but next time when the genocide issue is raised, sincerer answers will be given, he said as quoted by RFE/RL reports.

L.A.