HL Deb 08 May 2000 vol 612 cc200-2WA
Lord Pearson of Rannoch

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Baroness Scotland of Asthal on 18 April (WA 89), whether they will implement measures similar to those which limit their political relationship with Austria against any country whose leader or leaders have expressed sympathy, support or understanding for the national socialist or communist regimes in the former Soviet Union, in China or in Cuba; and, if not, why not. [HL2200]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

As circumstances vary, our relations with other governments are handled on a case-by-case basis. We shall continue to apply the principles which I spelled out in my previous Answer on 18 April 2000(WA 89) to the noble Lord.

Lord Pearson of Rannoch

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Baroness Scotland of Asthal on 18 April (WA 89), what are the considerations which lead them to describe Mr Haider's party in Austria as "far Right". [HL2201]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

We have been led to describe the Freedom Party in Austria as "far Right" in consideration of past statements by prominent members of the party making light of the Nazi record and, for example, the tendency towards xenophobia in its election campaigns.

Lord Stoddart of Swindon

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Baroness Scotland of Asthal on 18 April (WA 89), why they are developing and improving bilateral relations with the Russian Federation and its President Elect, Mr Putin, in the face of their action in Chechnya, while at the same time limiting their bilateral political relationship with Austria, which adheres to the United Nations Convention on Human Rights and has recently re-affirmed its adherence to the treaties and principles of the European Union. [HL2204]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

We seek to encourage respect for democracy and human rights in both Russia and Austria. The measures on Austria were a signal of our concern over the inclusion of a far-Right party in the government of an EU member state. We consider that the best way of influencing Russia towards more acceptable policies, including in Chechnya, is by developing a dialogue which allows us to be critical when we disagree. The EU has also signalled its concerns over Chechnya by limiting the TACIS aid programme for 2000 for Russia to promoting democracy and strengthening civil society and by co-sponsoring a critical resolution on Chechnya at the UN Commission on Human Rights.

Lord Lucas

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Answer by Baroness Scotland of Asthal on 19 April (H.L. Deb., col. 703) when Ministers will next meet Ministers from Austria for bilateral discussions of issues of concern. [HL2252]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

We have no plans for any bilateral meetings with Austria while the EU 14 measures are in place.