Written question asked by James Gray (Conservative) on Monday, 22 January 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 29 January 2001. It was answered by Lord Hain (Labour) on Monday, 29 January 2001 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 further discussions he has had with the British Ambassador to Mexico with regard to the disappearance of Miss Brenda Searle. - (Holding answer 25 January 2001).

Answer: Mr. Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what further discussions he has had with the British Ambassador to Mexico with regard to the disappearance of Miss Brenda Searle. [147085] Mr. Hain: [holding answer 25 January 2001]: Our Embassy in Mexico City has liaised with the Dutch Embassy to co-ordinate UK/Dutch efforts in this case. Our Embassy has held meetings with the Mexican police and local authorities. Ms Searle's parents were included in these meetings during their visit to Mexico in autumn last year. During his visit to Mexico in November 2000, Lord Levy raised Ms Searle's case with the then Mexican President Zedillo, who promised to ensure that everything possible would be done to help. We have maintained regular contact with Mr. and Mrs. Searle. Officials are arranging a further meeting with them in February.

Secondary information