§ Lord Juddasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is their latest analysis of the economic, social, political and human rights situation in Cambodia and what bilateral and multilateral policies they are consequently pursuing.
§ Baroness Chalker of WallaseyThe economic, social, political and human rights situation in Cambodia has greatly improved since the comprehensive political settlement brought to power a democratically-elected coalition government in 1993. But Cambodia is still a new democracy and a poor country with a weak economic infrastructure. There are a number of social and human rights problems, as well as continuing security concerns caused by the Khmer Rouge.
We are contributing, both through bilateral and multilateral aid, to programmes designed to improve economic and social conditions, which we hope will in turn lead to better security. We also take every suitable opportunity, both bilaterally and in conjunction with our international partners, to impress upon the Cambodians the importance of safeguarding democracy and protecting human rights.