HC Deb 11 February 1997 vol 290 cc92-3W
Mr. Sheerman

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action he proposes to take in respect of recent State Law and Order Restoration Council attacks on refugee camps on the Thailand-Burma border. [15197]

Mr. Hanley

We are concerned at reports that recent attacks by State Law and Order Restoration Council-controlled troops on refugee camps on the Thai-Burma border resulted in the deaths of at least three refugees. We regularly raise concerns about human rights abuses against ethnic minorities in Burma with the SLORC. Our ambassador in Bangkok has also raised this issue with the Thai Foreign Minister. The Government of Thailand are urgently considering ways in which to improve the security of these camps.

Mr. Sheerman

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will request the United Nations to take action to protect refugee camps housing Karen and Karennis people; and if he will make a statement. [15179]

Mr. Hanley

We are concerned at reports that recent attacks by State Law and Order Restoration Council-controlled troops on refugee camps on the Thai-Burma border resulted in the deaths of at least three refugees. We regularly raise concerns about human rights abuses against ethnic minorities in Burma with the SLORC. Our ambassador in Bangkok has also raised this issue with the Thai Foreign Minister. The Government of Thailand are urgently considering ways in which to improve the security of these camps.

The Thai Government have not requested assistance from the United Nations.

Mr. Sheerman

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received relating to the withdrawal of Thai military protection from border camps housing Karen and Karennis refugees. [15183]

Mr. Hanley

We are concerned at reports that recent attacks by State Law and Order Restoration Council-controlled troops on refugee camps on the Thai-Burma border resulted in the deaths of at least three refugees. We regularly raise concerns about human rights abuses against ethnic minorities in Burma with the SLORC. Our ambassador in Bangkok has also raised this issue with the Thai Foreign Minister. The Government of Thailand are urgently considering ways in which to improve the security of these camps.

We have received no indications that the Thais are planning to withdraw military protection.