HC Deb 21 November 1949 vol 470 cc27-9
52. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made by the Human Rights Commission of the United Nations organisation in the drawing up of model rules to protect human rights; and when he expects that these model rules will be completed and come into force.

Mr. Mayhew

The Commission has submitted a Draft Covenant on Human Rights to the Governments of the States Members of the United Nations for their comment; and intend to complete the Covenant, at its next Session in April and May, of 1950, so that the complete Draft may be submitted to the Economic and Social Council and subsequently the General Assembly in the latter half of 1950. It is impossible to say whether this time-table can be maintained and when the Covenant will come into force.

Mr. Hughes

While I thank the Minister for that answer, may I ask him whether the House will have an opportunity of discussing these instructions before the model rules are implemented, having regard to the importance of their scope and nature?

Mr. Mayhew

I am afraid that, in any case, that may be a long way ahead. It is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House.

Mr. Janner

Pending the production of these rules, can my hon. Friend say what steps are being taken to bring to the notice of the United Nations those breaches of human rights which are already being committed and, in particular, what steps are being taken with regard to the very brutal treatment at present being experienced by members of the Jewish community in Iraq?

Mr. Mayhew

Until the convenant is signed, we are precluded from intervening in any of these matters by the Charter of the United Nations.

53. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what instructions have been given to the British representatives on the Human Rights Commission of the United Nations organisation relating to the drawing up of model rules and otherwise; and if he will issue a White Paper on the subject'.

Mr. Mayhew

My right hon. Friend feels it would not be desirable to make public during the course of the drafting of the International Covenant on Human Rights, the instructions given to the United Kingdom Representative on the drafting committee.

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