§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the Government of Brazil concerning the rights of the Makuxi people in Ruraima and the expenditure of Group of Seven money. [871]
§ Mr. David DavisThe Government of Brazil are aware of our concern that the rights of the Makuzi and the other indigenous people of Brazil should be observed and protected. Our embassy in Brasilia keeps in regular touch with the Brazilian authorities and monitors the situation closely. The ODA representative in Brasilia is in regular contact with the Brazilian authorities about the expenditure of G7 money.
§ Mr. BattleTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the authorities in Brazil about the trials for the murder of agricultural workers' leaders; and if he will make a statement. [881]
§ Mr. DavisI believe that the hon. Member is referring to the murders of rural workers in Rio Maria in southern Para in 1991 and 1992. The embassy in Brasilia has remained in regular touch with the Brazilian authorities about these cases and has attended the resulting trials where possible. The sentences for those convicted have ranged from suspended sentence to 50 years imprisonment.