§ Andrew MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) what reports the UK mission in Peru has received concerning the date of the review of the case of Walter Cubas Balathazar; and if he will make a statement; [170240]
(2) what representations the Government have made to the Peruvian Government (a) in support of Mr. Cubas Balathazar and (b) in opposition to his detention; and if he will make a statement. [170277]
§ Mr. RammellOur Embassy in Lima raised the matter with the Ministry of Justice in July and November 2002, and again this April. We understand from the Peruvian authorities that the first hearing of Walter Cubas Balathazar's re-trial before the normal criminal justice system will be held on 14 May 2004. Our Embassy will continue to monitor closely this and all other similar cases. We support the Peruvian Government's efforts to improve and protect human rights for all Peruvians. We maintain a good dialogue with Peru on human rights.