§ Mr. AltonTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what account his Department takes of human rights of abuses, with special reference to the Karen people, in the provision of assistance to British investors in Burma. [5119]
§ Mr. NelsonMy Department's efforts have focused primarily on making United Kingdom companies aware of trade opportunities that exist in Burma, rather than investment. We continue to adopt a cautious approach with regard to investment in Burma.
We remain acutely concerned about the continued abuse of human rights in Burma, including against the Karen and other ethnic groups. We and other EU partners have made it clear to the ruling military regime that normalisation of our relations depends on progress in key areas, including human rights.
§ Mr. AltonTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what activities his Department has(a) undertaken and (b) will be undertaking to assist British investment in Burma from November 1995 to February 1996. [5118]
§ Mr. NelsonDuring the period November 1995–February 1996, my Department will continue to provide information relating to investment issues in Burma and the associated risks. We held a trade awareness seminar, "An Introduction to Burma," at the London chamber of commerce on 5 December 1995. This will be followed by a trade mission to Burma from 26 February to 1 March 1996. However, both events are focused primarily on the trade opportunities that may exist for British companies, rather than investment where we continue to take a cautious line.