§ Mr. MullinTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with the Government of China about religious freedom in Tibet and about the refusal of the Chinese authorities to recognise the Tibetan candidate for Panchen Lama; and if he will make a statement. [10424]
§ Mr. Hanley[holding answer 22 January 1996]: My right hon. and learned Friend the Foreign Secretary raised our concerns about the situation in Tibet during his discussions with the Chinese Prime Minister, and with the Chinese Foreign Minister, during his visit to Peking earlier this month.
163WWe regret that the Chinese Government and the Tibetan religious leaders have been unable to reach agreement on the selection of the new Panchen Lama. We will continue to urge the Chinese authorities to enter into a dialogue with the Tibetans, including the Dalai Lama, without preconditions, and to ensure the adequate protection of the distinct cultural, ethnic, linguistic and religious identity of the Tibetans.