§ Mr. CollinsTo ask the Prime Minister what discussions he held on the export of United Kingdom defence-related technology or goods during his recent visit to China. [56427]
§ The Prime MinisterI had no discussions on these issues during my visit to China. However, Premier Zhu Rongji and I reaffirmed our commitment to work towards a much stronger bilateral commercial relationship.
§ Mr. CollinsTo ask the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the application of his Government's ethical foreign policy to his recent visit to China. [56426]
§ The Prime MinisterI believe that dialogue with China on human rights, supported by practical co-operation, is more likely to bring about positive developments than confrontation. In my meetings with Chinese leaders, I welcomed some of the positive steps recently taken by China, such as the signature of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. I also expressed our continuing concerns about human rights in China, referring to the cases of individuals and the situation in Tibet. I encouraged China to take further positive steps in all these areas.
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