§ 15. David Taylor (North-West Leicestershire) (Lab)If he will make a statement on the security situation in Zimbabwe.[144054]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Chris Mullin)The security situation in Zimbabwe remains tense. There is currently political and social unrest, coupled with deteriorating economic conditions. Nationwide strikes, "stayaways" and demonstrations earlier this year have led to confrontations with the security forces, violent incidents and arrests. We monitor the security situation closely, and regularly update our travel advice to reflect changing circumstances.
§ David TaylorRobert Mugabe presides over a country in which democracy is dying, the economy is in tatters, and social strife is endemic. Does the Minister agree that following Zimbabwe's withdrawal from the Commonwealth its President will feel even less accountable to the international community, and that consequently human rights and the rule of law will be even more battered? What plans are there to protect the remaining British community from such a maelstrom if it does occur?
§ Mr. MullinWe have contingency plans in case the situation deteriorates further, but they are just that— contingency plans. We see no particular threat at present to the remaining members of the British community in Zimbabwe, although, as my hon. Friend says, the situation is bad and is deteriorating.