§ Sir Alastair GoodladTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what discussions she has held with her EC counterparts about regulations to guide the use of development funds for human rights promotion and protection; what will be the status of those regulations; and if she will make a statement. [39455]
§ Mr. FoulkesTwo regulations governing the use of development funds for human rights promotion and protection are currently under discussion at working group level in the Council. Once agreed, the Regulations will provide a legal base and policy framework for projects financed from relevant EC external assistance budget lines. We have been pressing for the inclusion of references to social and economic rights, as well as civil and political ones, in the negotiations.
§ Sir John StanleyTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development which aspects of the Government's human rights policy are her Department's responsibility. [39679]
§ Mr. FoulkesThe Department for International Development's contribution to the UK Government's objective of achieving human rights for all will be to focus on the rights which are essential for eliminating poverty and for achieving sustainable livelihoods and dignity for disadvantages people in poorer countries. This encompasses economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights of poor and disadvantaged peoples in poorer countries.