§ Mr. Nigel JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the situation in the Moluccas regarding(a) security and (b) religious freedom. [147380]
§ Mr. BattleThe second anniversary of the outbreak of unrest in the Moluccas on 19 January was marked by renewed violence in Ambon. At least 14 people were killed in clashes between Moslems and security forces. This latest break-down illustrates the fragility of the security situation and has cast a shadow over recent improvements in Ambon, including the calm period over the Moslem and Christian holidays. We remain deeply concerned by reports of attempts to force Christians to convert to Islam in Kesuiu and Tior. The Governor of Maluku led a second mixed-faith Mission to the islands on 23 January. If necessary, the Miss ion will arrange to evacuate all those wishing to leave the islands. We continue to urge the Indonesian Government to exercise tolerance and restraint, and remind them of their responsibility to maintain law and order and take immediate steps to bring the perpetrators of the violence to justice. I did so most recently with Foreign Minister Shihab on 12 December.