§ Mr. LaxtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the arrests of members of the Maldivian Democratic Party on 13 February by the Maldivian authorities; and on the extent to which human rights are protected in the Maldives. [159859]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienWe are aware that the Maldivian authorities arrested An unconfirmed number of people in the capital Male on 13 February in advance of a demonstration planned for 14 February by those sympathetic to the Maldivian Democratic Party. We look to the Government of the Maldives to charge those arrested promptly, in accordance with local law, or to release them. We have concerns about the protection of human rights in the Maldives, including the right of freedom of expression. We will continue to raise these concerns with the Government of the Maldives.