§ The Earl of Sandwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is their response to the political and constitutional crisis in Nepal; what can be achieved through diplomatic channels; and how British interests will be protected. [HL1780]
§ Baroness Scotland of AsthalWe are watching developments closely. The Maoist insurgency has intensified in recent weeks, and we deplore the violence which has claimed an estimated 2,000 lives over the last five years. The Foreign Secretary and the Defence Secretary both visited Nepal last year and urged the Nepalese Government to pursue a peace process with the Maoist insurgents. We have also joined our European partners in issuing a statement on 11 April urging all parties to search for a peaceful solution. FCO travel advice for Nepal is regularly updated in the light of events. The embassy keeps a close eye on the situation and discusses security issues on a regular basis with NGOs, UK companies and British Gurkhas, Nepal.