Written question asked by John Bercow (Conservative) on Monday, 7 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 21 February 2005. It was answered by Douglas Alexander (Labour) on Monday, 21 February 2005 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what discussions he has had with the Government of Nepal on progress towards democracy, with particular reference to freedom of the press.

Answer: Mr. Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the Government of Nepal on progress towards democracy, with particular reference to freedom of the press. [215661] Mr. Alexander: The UK has consistently upheld the importance of democracy and democratic institutions in Nepal, including freedom of the press. The King's takeover of power on 1 February seriously undermines Nepal's democratic credentials and we have called for the immediate restitution of multi-party democracy. Since the Palace takeover and the introduction of very strict media censorship, our ambassador in Kathmandu has specifically raised the importance we attach to the freedom of the press with both the King and the Foreign Minister.

Secondary information