HC Deb 03 February 1998 vol 305 cc598-9W
Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will encourage the Chinese Government to accept the right to religious freedom in China, with particular reference to Xinjiang and Tibet. [26772]

Mr. Fatchett

During his recent visit to China, my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary discussed human rights with Chinese leaders. We believe that the Chinese authorities should look upon religious freedom as fulfilling a basic human need, and not as a threat.

Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment his Department has made of the extent of religious freedom in China. [26773]

Mr. Fatchett

This Department constantly monitors the human rights situation in China, including the freedom of religion, and has discussed the issue with the Chinese authorities. We believe that they should look upon religious freedom as fulfilling a basic human need, and not as a threat.

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