§ Lord Alton of Liverpoolasked Her Majesty's Government:
What discussions they have had with the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees about its role in refugee camps on the Thai-Burma border; and whether they will make representations to the UNHCR to limit its role in those camps to one of protection, including ensuring that no forced repatriations take place. [HL3542]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe British Embassy in Bangkok is in close touch with the Thai authorities and the local UNHCR office about arrangements for UNHCR role on the Thai-Burma border. UNHCR hopes to open two new border offices in the next few weeks which would focus on protection, admissions, relocation and registration. We have received assurances from the Thai authorities that no forced repatriations of Burmese refugees will take place.