UN Commission on Human Rights

HC Deb 26 July 1999 vol 336 c152W

Mr. McNamara

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, pursuant to his answer of 8 July 1999,Official Report, column 597, on the 55th Session of the UN Commission on Human Rights, what are the terms of reference of the Special Rapporteur study; and what measures he will take to promote public awareness of the study. [92931]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

The sub-Commission on Prevention of Discrimination and Protection of Minorities recommended the appointment of a Special Rapporteur in August 1998. The mandate has to be endorsed by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), currently under way in Geneva. Subject to ECOSOC's approval, the Special Rapporteur will carry out a study on the concept practice of Affirmative Action to be presented to the Sub-Commission. The Special Rapporteur will invite comments from governments and NGOs preparing his study.