A Sinn Féin MP is travelling to Turkey today to observe the trial of jailed left-wing politicians.

Paul Maskey, MP for Belfast West, is one of nine people taking part in an international delegation of observers to witness the trial of People’s Democratic Party (HDP) leaders and representatives.

He joins Labour MPs Dan Carden and Kate Osamor, Lords Watts and Glassman, London Assembly members Jennette Arnold and Unmesh Desai, Cllr Ali Gul Ozbek and Dennis McNulty from GMB.

Ahead of his trip, Mr Maskey said: “I will be travelling this week as an independent international observer for the trial of two HDP co-chairs, and seven MPs, arrested by the Turkish government over a year ago.

“I will travel alongside trade unionists, civic society and political representatives to witness the legal proceedings.

“My role as an observer is to ensure international legal standards are met, and that the human rights of all detainees are fully recognised and respected.”