Written question asked by John MacDougall (Labour) on Monday, 23 June 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 June 2008. It was answered by Meg Munn (Labour) on Thursday, 26 June 2008 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Burma: Politics and Government

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment he has made of the political situation in Burma; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: We remain deeply concerned at the political situation in Burma. The regime continues to ignore the calls of the UN Security Council for a genuine and inclusive dialogue with the opposition and ethnic groups. Such a dialogue is the only way the country will achieve the national reconciliation, prosperity and stability it needs now more than ever. The renewal of Aung San Suu Kyi's house arrest on 27 May, and the regime's decision to undertake its flawed referendum in the midst of a humanitarian crisis, underline the urgency of making progress. As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister said on 19 June 2008, the recent referendum lacks all credibility and the new constitution cannot provide a sound basis for Burma's future.Working in support of the UN Secretary-General's Good Offices Mission and encouraging Burma's neighbours to play a more active role, we will continue to do all we can to promote democracy and respect for human rights in Burma.

Secondary information