§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of Sri Lanka to ensure the safety and protection of the Tamil community during the present military security actions now taking place in Sri Lanka.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydWe have frequently made clear our concern to the Government of Sri Lanka that they should conduct the anti-terrorist campaign against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam with full respect for the security and human rights of civilians. I emphasised this during my recent visit there. We shall continue to watch the situation closely.
§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with the Government of Sri Lanka concerning human rights abuses; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydWe have taken every opportunity to raise human rights issues with the Sri Lankan authorities, including during my recent visit there. There has been a marked improvement in Sri Lanka's human rights performance over the last year. We shall continue to watch the situation closely.