§ Mr. AllanTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he is making to the. Colombian Government concerning the safety of British volunteers with Peace Brigades International in Colombia. [150633]
§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Colombian Government following the recent declaration of the Colombian Parliament that humanitarian workers for Peace Brigades International are to be targeted as a military objective. [150702]
§ Mr. BattleWe were appalled to learn about the threats made against Peace Brigades International volunteers in Colombia. As I made clear in a statement on 13 February, we are very concerned about the safety of all human rights workers in Colombia, who operate in extremely difficult and dangerous conditions. We have asked that the Colombian Government take further steps to protect human rights workers so that they may go about their lives and work in safety. In addition, the EU presidency, on behalf of all EU member states, has expressed concern about the threats made against Peace Brigades International and other human rights workers, and has urged that appropriate measures be taken by the Colombian authorities to protect them.