§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of China concerning the use of child labour; and if he will make a statement. [36318]
§ Sir Nicholas BonsorWe continue to be deeply concerned about reports of the exploitation of child labour in China. We take every suitable opportunity to raise our concerns about all forms of human rights abuse in China with the Chinese authorities, both bilaterally and in conjunction with our EU partners. My right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs did so during his talks with Chinese leaders in Peking in January, and again with the Chinese Foreign Minister in The Hague on 20 April.
§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of Pakistan concerning child and bonded labour; and if he will make a statement. [36320]
§ Sir Nicholas BonsorWe regularly raise our concerns about child and bonded labour with the Government of Pakistan. Poverty clearly exacerbates the problem, but is not an excuse for abusive child labour; there is no justification for bonded labour. We welcome steps taken to improve the situation, but much remains to be done.