§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what actions he is taking to protect the citizens of countries whose security services are guilty of crimes against them. [90799]
§ Mr. Tony LloydVarious international human rights instruments, most notably the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention against Torture, contain provisions designed to protect individuals from abuse by public authorities, including security services. We consistently urge all Governments to ratify and implement these instruments. More generally, we are able to provide practical assistance to strengthen understanding of and respect for human rights among public officials.