Mr. Gareth ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action the UK Government are taking to bring to the attention of the Algerian Government their responsibilities to protect the lives of civilians. [27993]
§ Mr. FatchettI led the EU Troika Mission to Algiers from 19–20 January 1998. We had talks with the Foreign Minister and the Prime Minister. As part of the EU political dialogue with Algeria, we raised with them the need to provide adequate protection for their citizens. We believe that it is important that this dialogue should continue.
Mr. Gareth ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to expedite action by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial killings in Algeria. [27994]
§ Mr. FatchettDuring the EU Troika Mission to Algiers from 19–20 January 1998, I and my Troika colleagues urged the Algerian Government to agree to a visit by the UN Special Rapporteurs. The Algerians stated that they are not ready to do so. We will continue to press them to issue an invitation as soon as possible.
Mr. Gareth ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the policy of the Government in relation to the future progress of the EU-Algeria Partnership Agreement with particular reference to Algeria's commitments under the humans rights clause in that agreement. [27992]
§ Mr. FatchettThe EU/Algeria Association Agreement currently under negotiation will contain a human rights clause committing both parties to respect human rights and democratic principles. We support progress in negotiating the agreement, which will provide for political dialogue on a range of issues, including human rights, once it enters into force.