HL Deb 12 January 1998 vol 584 c126WA
Lord Avebury

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will propose that the European Union issue a demarche on the 25 year prison sentences passed against three Ahmadis under Section 295(C) of the penal code in Pakistan and on the use of this provision in the law in general.

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

Our High Commission in Islamabad are investigating why Section 295(C) of the penal code was invoked in this instance, and the prospects for appeal. The EU raised its concerns about the situation faced by religious minorities and the blasphemy laws with the Pakistan Government on 15 December.