§ The Earl of Sandwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
What further measures they intend to take to increase international pressure on Burma to end internal armed conflict and. in particular. the repression of the Karen who are forced to seek refuge in Thailand. [HL1177]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanWe will continue to take every opportunity to make clear to the Burmese regime our deep concern at the situation there, particularly over human rights violations against the ethnic minorities. We are actively supporting the efforts of the UN to bring about an improvement in the situation in Burma. With EU partners, we will be working towards a tough resolution at the forthcoming session of the UN Commission on Human Rights. We also expect Burma to be on the agenda of the forthcoming ILO session.
§ The Earl of Sandwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are satisfied with the European Common Position on Burma; and, if not, whether they intend to recommend further measures in accordance with World Trade Organisation obligations. [HL1178]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanEU member states have taken strong action to bring pressure to bear on the Burmese regime in the form of a Common Position first adopted in 1996. Last year saw further human rights abuses by the regime. In October, we successfully argued for the Common Position to be strengthened. The Common Position is due for renewal again in April; we will he working with partners to ensure that the measures in it continue to provide an appropriate response to the regime's record on human rights and democracy.