§ Mr. David Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he has taken to publicise and protest against abuses of human rights in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EggarWe take every opportunity to make clear our grave concern at the gross violation of human rights by the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan and did so most recently on 13 November in the United Nations General Assembly debate on Afghanistan. We welcomed the fact that the Assembly condemned the Soviet occupation by a record majority of 122 votes to 19.
§ Mr. David Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has held with other EEC countries about events in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EggarOn 22 and 23 July 1985, my right hon. and learned Friend discussed developments in Afghanistan with his Community colleagues. Their joint statement supporting the UN peace talks and condemning the Soviet occupation formed the basis of the statement made by the Luxembourg Foreign Minister on behalf of the Community to the UN General Assembly on 12 November.