§ 29. Mr. HeppellTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the Indian Government on self-determination for the people of Kashmir; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydMy right hon. Friend the Prime Minister discussed Kashmir with the Indian Prime Minister when he visited New Delhi recently. He made clear that the best way forward should involve simultaneous progress on dialogue between India and Pakistan, an improvement in human rights and a genuine political process in Kashmir in which the political aspirations of the population there can be accommodated; and a cessation of all external support for violence in Kashmir.
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§ Mr. FraserTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations have been made by him recently to the Government of India about human rights in Kashmir.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydMy right hon. Friend the Prime Minister raised British concerns about human rights in Kashmir with the Indian Prime Minister during his visit to India last month. He also encouraged the Indian Government to allow independent human rights organisations and others to visit Kashmir. Mr Narasimha Rao assured us of his Government's commitment to respect human rights and determination to take action against wrongdoers.