§ Mr. Altonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if, during his forthcoming visit to Nepal, he will raise with the Government of Nepal allegations of persecution of Nepalese Christians.
§ Mr. EggarNo. Allegations about the treatment of Nepalese citizens in Nepal are an internal matter for the Government of that country. We have no locus standi to intervene. Her Majesty's embassy at Kathmandu is in regular contact with Christian leaders and missionary societies in Nepal.
We have no hesitation about making our views on human rights clear to other Governments when necessary. His Majesty King Birendra and the Nepalese Foreign Minister—who is himself a Christian—are aware of our position. I understand that the Foreign Minister has undertaken to investigate any specific allegations of persecution of Nepalese Christians. In the circumstances, I do not consider it would be appropriate for us to make representations.
I understand that the delegation which the hon. Member recently accompanied to Nepal received the full and open co-operation of the Nepalese Government.