Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Alton of Liverpool (Crossbench). It was answered on Monday, 23 November 2009.

Rwanda

Question: My Lords, notwithstanding some of the shortcomings in Rwanda, 1 million people died there during the course of the genocide. Should we not do all that we possibly can to help Rwanda make progress for the future? Is not one practical thing that we could do now to bring to justice those genocidaires living in this country who are now eligible for prosecution as a result of the amendment to the Coroners and Justice Bill moved by my noble friend Lady D’Souza, the noble Lord, Lord Carlile, myself and others? Can the Minister give an assurance that he will report back to the House, as soon as is convenient, on what progress we have made in bringing to justice those living in this country who are responsible for many of the deaths in Rwanda?

Answer: My Lords, I must be very careful in what I say. There are cases which are subject to appeal and therefore it would not be appropriate for me to make any individual reference. Justice and reconciliation are essential parts of bringing together countries which have been torn apart by ethnic, religious or other issues. I shall take note of the noble Lord’s question and consider it.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 715 c137
Session: 2009-10
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Related items: Deposited Paper DEP2009-3115
Monday, 23 November 2009
Deposited papers
House of Lords; Rwanda
Monday, 7 December 2009
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Commonwealth Rwanda
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk