§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will ask the Indian Government to permit observer groups to witness elections in Kashmir. [23345]
§ Mr. HanleyWe have made it plain to the Government of India that we would favour the greatest possible openness in the conduct of the election process in Jammu and Kashmir.
§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the Indian Government regarding elections in the Indian-occupied Kashmir; and if he will make a statement. [23332]
§ Mr. HanleyThe Indian Government are aware of our wish to see the development of a genuine political process in Kashmir. The Indian Election Commission has announced that parliamentary elections are to be held in Jammu and Kashmir on 7, 23 and 30 May.