§ 26. Fiona MactaggartTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on Britain's relations with Pakistan. [141987]
§ Mr. HainBritain remains one of Pakistan's oldest and closest friends. We continue to urge General Musharraf to produce a credible timetable for democracy. We are pleased that the first round of local elections will commence soon but are disappointed that they will be held on a non-party basis. We also welcome Pakistan's positive response to the Indian ceasefire announcement on Kashmir.
§ 38. Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the new High Commissioner and representatives of Pakistan on steps to restore democracy in Pakistan. [141999]
§ Mr. HainI discussed the restoration of democracy with the new High Commissioner when we met on 6 December. I reiterated to him that the UK remained on hand to offer advice and assistance to the Pakistan authorities to help restore democratic rule.