§ Mr. SpringTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the political and security situation in Nepal; and if he will make a statement. [166197]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienI refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Newbury (David Rendel) on 9 March 2004,Official Report, column 1436W.
We are closely monitoring the political and security situation in Nepal. The increased violence evident in recent weeks is of great concern. We continue, in our contacts with all parties, to urge an end to the conflict in order that Nepal can achieve a lasting peace and a return to democracy.