§ 18. Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs why Her Majesty's Government did not support the principles expressed in the proposals contained in the Actions Programme for the Development of Human Rights which were adopted by a majority of the Commission on Human Rights at its Eleventh Session; and whether he will reconsider this attitude with a view to instructing Her Majesty's Government's representative at the next Session of the Commission to give positive and constructive co-operation in the working out of the details of this programme, in view of its importance to humanity.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Lord John Hope)Her Majesty's Government have serious doubts whether the means suggested are likely to prove effective in advancing the observance of human rights throughout the world. But the actual reason why the United Kingdom delegate did not support the inclusion of these items in the Commission's future programme was that the substance of the proposals had not been discussed. This will be done at the next Session of the Commission and Her Majesty's Government will, meanwhile, give further careful consideration to the merits of the proposals.
§ Mr. JannerIs the Minister aware that this has caused very great concern to people who are interested in the United Nations and in the Commission 253 on Human Rights? Their concern is that we are not serious about the continuation of that Commission. Can he suggest what steps should be taken as an alternative to those which were adopted at the Eleventh Session?
§ Lord John HopeThat is a different question. I hope that those who have been disappointed will now realise the reason. I am obliged to the hon. Gentleman for putting the Question.
§ Mr. PagetIs the Minister aware, and has he considered, that the acceptance of this programme would involve the repeal of practically the whole of our aliens legislation?