§ Mr. Andy ReedTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) what representations he has made to the Sri Lankan Government concerning(a) the publication in July 2001 of the Sinhala Commission Report and (b) the publication of similar anti-Christian material over the last 18 months; [88619]
(2) [hat recent representations he has made to the Sri Lankan Government concerning the increase in violent attacks perpetrated upon Christians by Buddhist extremists; [88618]
(3) what representations he has made to the Sri Lankan Government concerning the activities of the Bauddha Sanrakshana Sabhava, the Society for the Preservation of Buddhism; [88620]
265WS(4) what representations he has made to the Sri Lankan Government concerning the difficulties faced by Christians in obtaining planning permission to build new churches. [88621]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienWe are aware of allegations of attacks on members of the Christian community in Sri Lanka. It appears that such attacks are not on the increase or part of a generalised problem or coherent strategy. There are some safeguards in place to protect people from all religious backgrounds, and there are dedicated ministries for Christian as well as Hindu, Muslim and Buddhist affairs. However, our High Commission continues to monitor the situation and raises the rights of religious minorities, and other human rights issues, with the Sri Lankan authorities. We regularly urge the authorities to ensure the rights of all minorities are upheld.
§ Mr. LoveTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on progress in the Sri Lankan peace talks. [89411]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThe Foreign Secretary and I were pleased to meet Professor Peiris, the Minister leading the Sri Lankan Government delegation, in December. This is an historic time for Sri Lanka. It is encouraging that the two sides have agreed to explore a solution founded on the principle of internal self-determination for the Tamil people, based on a federal structure within a united Sri Lanka. I am pleased that human rights are being addressed. I look forward to further progress at the next round of talks in January. The international community has an important role to play in offering both political and practical support to Sri Lanka. The UK has committed over £15 million in developmental assistance for 2003–04.