§ The Earl of Sandwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether the political situation in Burma has deteriorated since the beginning of the year. [HL2260]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean:The political situation in Burma remains deplorable. Despite the release of two prominent political prisoners earlier this year, large numbers of political prisoners are still in detention. Ethnic minorities continue to seek refuge in Thailand. We support the efforts of the UN Secretary General's envoy, Alvaro de Soto, to discharge his good offices role and encourage improvements in the political situation.
§ The Earl of Sandwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they have responded to the recent calls by Aung San Suu Kyi for "concrete action" with regard to Burma. [HL2261]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean:We take all opportunities to deplore the Burmese regime's disregard for human rights And democracy. We supported the renewal of the EU Common Position on 26 April; we worked with EU Partners on the UN Commission on Human Rights resolution adopted on 23 April; and we are working with interested parties to co-ordinate action in the International Labour Organisation based on the regime's response to ILO recommendations to stop forced labour in Burma.