HC Deb 06 May 1994 vol 242 cc674-5W
Sir Russell Johnston

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what view was expressed by Her Majesty's Government at the meeting of the Security Council of the United Nations of 21 April where it was decided to reduce the United Nations peacekeeping presence in Rwanda.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The Security Council was unanimous in adopting Security Council resolution 912 on the basis of recommendations put to the council by the United Nations Secretary-General.

In view of the absence of any ceasefire and the casualties already inflicted on the United Nations Aid Mission in Rwanda, we supported the view that the United Nations forces in Rwanda were no longer able to fulfil their mandate and that the United Nations Assistance Mission in Rwanda should be scaled down, pending further recommendations from the Secretary-General.

We also stressed the importance of retaining a United Nations presence in theatre to support the Force Commander and the Secretary-General's special representative in their efforts to secure a ceasefire and an end to hostilities.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received, directly or via the United Nations, of outside military forces, helping the rebel forces in Rwanda; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

We have had no such reports.

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