Written question asked by Daniel Kawczynski (Conservative) on Thursday, 15 March 2012, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 19 March 2012. It was answered by David Lidington (Conservative) on Wednesday, 21 March 2012 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Belarus

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will take steps to enable opposition groups from Belarus to meet hon. Members.

Answer: The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), and I met Belarusian opposition figures in London during a visit organised by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office between 13 and 15 December 2011. The delegation met a number of hon. Members, along with the International Offices of a number of political parties, and representatives of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy. They also attended the launch of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Belarus.We have no firm plans for a repeat visit at this time. However, as 1 told the opposition groups, the UK will continue to pursue all means possible to promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Belarus.

Secondary information