§ 28. Lynne JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the prospects of self-determination for the people of Kashmir. [1528]
§ Mr. BradshawIt is clear that any solution in Kashmir must involve, and reflect the views of, the people of Kashmir. We have therefore welcomed the Indian Government's decision to engage in dialogue with Kashmiris. We hope that all parties directly involved will find a just and lasting settlement soon.
§ Mrs. FitzsimonsTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress has been made in allowing human rights monitors to enter Indian-occupied Kashmir. [1517]
§ Mr. BradshawWe have consistently urged the Indian authorities to allow access to Kashmir for international human rights bodies, including the UN Rapporteurs on Torture and on Extra-judicial Executions and the Working Group on Disappearances, and organisations such as Amnesty International. We are disappointed that, after repeated requests from the organisations concerned, such visits have not yet been authorised.