§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what discussions she has had with the Government of Nepal regarding the situation of indigenous groups and untouchables who are the victims of bonded labour in Nepal; and if she will make a statement. [132312]
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§ Mr. FoulkesOur officials have in recent weeks been in dialogue with senior Government of Nepal officials in the Home Ministry and Prime Minister's Office in support of the campaign to make bonded labour illegal in Nepal. I am pleased to report that the Government of Nepal decided on 17 July to make this practice illegal and in so doing cancelled all related debts. The challenge now is how to ensure legislation is enforced, and to support these individuals in securing future livelihood opportunities. In addition to existing UK support to an Integrated Social Development Programme which works directly with bonded labourers and untouchables, we have informed the Government of Nepal that the UK is ready to assist further in the rehabilitation of bonded labourers. We are also working to mobilise the support of other donors.