§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he or his Department has had recently with the Government of Sudan regarding the treatment of Sudanese Christians. [1355]
§ Mr. BradshawWe continue to he deeply concerned by the suffering of all in the Sudan, regardless of religious or ethnic background. Christians do have specific concerns, which we take up with the Government of Sudan bilaterally and through the EU. In recent weeks, our ambassador in Khartoum has discussed our concerns with a number of leading Sudanese politicians, including the Vice-President, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister for Religious Affairs and the Governor of Khartoum State. He has also held a meeting with Archbishop Marona, the leader of the Episcopal Church of Sudan. This is part of a continuing dialogue on a key issue for human rights, and peace, in Sudan. Church issues are also an important part of the agenda of the EU/Sudan political dialogue. In London my officials keep in close touch with representatives of the British Churches with an interest in Sudanese affairs.