§ Mr. Menzies CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent representations Her Majesty's Government have made to the Government of Uganda about human rights with specific reference to the conduct of the police towards opposition supporters at a rally in Kampala on 12 January; and if he will make a statement. [52112]
§ Mr. StrawWe follow closely the human rights situation in Uganda and regularly raise our concerns with the Ugandan authorities. We also have regular contact with the Ugandan Human Rights Commission and other HR interest groups such as the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative.
We take seriously reports of human rights abuses, such as harassment of the opposition. Unfortunately, the 12 January rally resulted in the death of a student. Three policemen were arrested in connection with the incident, but were subsequently released pending further investigation. The high commission continues regularly to stress to the Ugandan authorities the need for effective action to bring those responsible for this death to justice.