HC Deb 29 November 1995 vol 267 cc739-40W
Mr. Tony Lloyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what discussions he has had with the Gambian regime to ensure that free and fair elections are held in July 1996. [2754]

Mr. Hanley

[holding answer 28 November 1995]: My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and my noble Friend the Minister for Overseas Development had the opportunity to discuss our concerns with representatives of the regime at the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Auckland and to press for a rapid return to a civilian democracy and for the full respect of human rights. The Gambia should benefit from the Millbrook programme, which is intended to advance Commonwealth fundamental political values and support the practice of Harare principles.

Mr. LLoyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received about the human rights situation in the Gambia in the last year; and if he will make a statement. [2753]

Mr. Hanley

[holding answer 28 November 1995]: We have received numerous representations from individuals and human rights organisations on the Gambia. We have repeatedly called on the regime to respect human rights and demonstrate its own stated commitment to return the Gambia to a civilian democracy in July 1996 by lifting the ban on political activity.

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