HC Deb 28 March 1985 vol 76 cc312-3W
Mr. Foulkes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action the Government have taken regarding individual cases of human rights violation in Chile; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Renton

The Chilean Government are very well aware of our concern about reports of human rights violations in Chile.

Mr. Foulkes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the recent visit by officials from his Department to Chile, stating in particular (a) the reason for the visit, (b) the persons met on the visit, (c) whether human rights issues were discussed and with whom, (d) whether military aid or co-operation was discussed and with whom, (e) whether any invitations to Chilean persons were extended and (f) whether any invitations to Ministers were extended by the Chilean authorities.

Mr. Renton

A senior Foreign and Commonwealth Office official visited Chile from 26–28 February during a tour of four South American countries. His purpose was to obtain first hand impressions about the current situation in Chile and the prospects for an early return to democracy. He met a wide range of Chilean opinion including members of the Government, democratic opposition parties, trade union leaders and human rights groups. The theme of human rights was a point of special concern in all his conversations. No invitations for visits, in either direction, were extended.