HC Deb 04 November 1997 vol 300 cc170-1W
Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions have been held with the Government of Ghana concerning human rights abuses; and if he will make a statement on United Kingdom relations with Ghana. [13665]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

[holding answer 3 November 1997]: We have not held any recent discussions with the Government of Ghana concerning human rights. We continue to monitor the human rights situation in Ghana closely, and raise specific issues with the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice.

We have excellent bilateral relations with Ghana.

Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions have been held with the Government of Sri Lanka concerning the conflict with Tamil groups; what mediation services have been offered; and if he will make a statement. [13667]

Mr. Fatchett

[holding answer 3 November 1997]: We have regular discussions with the Sri Lankan Government on a range of issues, including their efforts to find a resolution to the ethnic conflict. We have said publicly that we stand ready to help in those efforts if both sides ask us to play a role.

Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations have been made by the Government to the Government of Algeria concerning human rights abuses; and if he will make a statement. [13488]

Mr. Fatchett

[holding answer 3 November 1997]: I continue to be seriously concerned about the security situation in Algeria. I condemn the violence unreservedly and call on those responsible to end the appalling atrocities which have been inflicted on innocent civilians for much too long. We urge the Algerian Government and all interested parties to find early solutions to this major internal problem. I was concerned to learn about reports of fraud in the local and municipal elections held on 23 October 1997 and hope that the Algerian Government will continue to make active progress in its programme of democratisation.