§ Ms SouthworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions the United Kingdom Government have had with the Saudi Arabian authorities on the establishment by Saudi Arabia of the governmental and non-governmental organisations recommended by the UN Commission on Human Rights. [133945]
§ Mr. HainFrom discussions between the British Embassy in Riyadh and the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we understand that details of the governmental committee are being finalised. As far as we are aware, a date for the committee's first meeting has not been agreed. Progress to establish a non-governmental committee has been slower. We will continue to press the Saudis.
§ Ms SouthworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations the Government have made to the Saudi Arabian Government in support of increased access to Saudi Arabia for non-governmental human rights monitors, with particular reference to monitors from Amnesty International. [133947]
§ Mr. HainThe Government have not been asked by Amnesty International or any other non-governmental organisation to approach the Saudi Government about access to the Kingdom. In the first instance, this is a matter for individual NGOs to discuss with the Saudi Government.