§ Mr. ParryTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on his Department's assessment of the latest situation in Kashmir in respect of human rights.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThe state of human rights in Kashmir gives grounds for concern. During his recent visit to India, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister raised with the Indian Prime Minister the situation in Kashmir. Mr. Narasimha Rao reiterated his commitment to respect for human rights. He confirmed that he would be introducing legislation soon to set up an independent human rights commission, which he was determined would be effective. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister encouraged him to allow independent international human rights organisations and others to visit Kashmir.