Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The question follows concerns about the deteriorating human rights conditions in Sri Lanka.
What recent assessment has been made of the human rights situation in Sri Lanka. The Foreign Secretary confirmed that the UK would lead a new resolution on post-conflict reconciliation, accountability and human rights at the UN Human Rights Council.
The Minister for South Asia, Lord Ahmad, set out our serious concerns about human rights in Sri Lanka in a statement at the UN Human Rights Council on 25 February. On 22 February, the Foreign Secretary confirmed that the UK would lead a new resolution on post-conflict reconciliation, accountability and human rights. We continue to engage with Sri Lanka on these issues.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
There are reports of widespread use of torture by the Sri Lankan police, leading to concerns about UK assistance.
The UK has spent more than £7 million through its conflict, stability and security fund to assist the Sri Lankan police and military. Will the Minister commit to publishing the full overseas security and justice assistance assessments for activities under this programme?
Our engagement with the military in Sri Lanka is designed to support a modern, effective and human rights-compliant military. Engagement with the police is focused on community policing, increasing women's representation, and improving responses to sexual and gender-based violence. Our engagement is subject to ongoing overseas security and justice assessments.
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Assessment & feedback
Commitment to publish full assessments not explicitly given.
Engagement With The Military And Police Is Designed
Subject To Ongoing Assessments
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
There are alarming reports of forced cremations of coronavirus victims, including Muslims and Christians.
What representations has the Minister made to his Sri Lankan counterpart on respect for and protection of religious beliefs and freedoms?
The hon. Gentleman is right to raise this matter, which is a concern for many constituents. My colleague, Lord Ahmad, has raised issues of human rights, accountability and reconciliation with his counterpart, the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister, but also has deep concerns about the decision to mandate cremations due to covid.
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Assessment & feedback
Details of specific representations not provided.
Has Raised Issues Of Human Rights
Deep Concerns About Cremation Policy
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The expiry of UNHCR resolution 40/1 leads to concerns about drafting a new resolution.
What success has the Government had in their role as leader of the core group on Sri Lanka at the UNHCR in drafting a new UN Human Rights Council resolution?
We are concerned by the recent UN report. The UK would lead a new resolution on post-conflict reconciliation, accountability and human rights at the UN Human Rights Council.
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Assessment & feedback
Details of success in drafting not provided.
Concerns By Recent Un Report
Would Lead A New Resolution
Response accuracy