§ Mr. FatchettTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the recent visit to Bahrain by the Minister of State, the right hon. Member for Richmond and Barnes (Mr. Harnley), with particular reference to his assessment of the human rights situation. [34263]
§ Mr. HanleyI visited Bahrain from 16 to 18 June. I was received by His Highness the Amir and met a number of Ministers and senior officials, as well as the President of the Shura Council.
66WThe warm welcome I received in Bahrain reflects the strong ties and excellent relations Bahrain has with Britain. We are fortunate to have such good friends, not only in Bahrain but in the region as a whole. We must ensure that the close co-operation we enjoy is maintained.
I discussed a wide range of issues during my visit, including human rights. I used the opportunity to set out a number of human rights concerns which have been raised in the United Kingdom. As a result of my discussions, I am clear that the Bahraini authorities will in the near future conclude an agreement to allow a visit by the International Committee of the Red Cross to take place.
We support the efforts by the Government of Bahrain to address the difficulties there, and I welcome the Amir's recent decision to expand the powers of the Shura Council.