Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 11 November 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 November 2004. It was answered by Douglas Alexander (Labour) on Thursday, 18 November 2004 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make representations on the need to ensure the Maldives Government general election campaign is conducted to internationally accepted standards; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make representations on the need to ensure the Maldives Government general election campaign is conducted to internationally accepted standards; and if he will make a statement. [198554] Mr. Alexander: The parliamentary elections due in the Maldives on 31 December come at an important moment in the country's democratic reform process. We have already welcomed many of the reform proposals outlined by President Gayoom in June and his stated commitment to an open and inclusive reform process. The elections will enable the international community to judge whether President Gayoom and the Maldives Government are genuinely committed to reform. We look to the Government of the Maldives to ensure that the election process is free and fair and in accordance with international standards; that all who wish to stand for election are allowed to stand and campaign freely; that the electorate and the media are allowed to engage in open debate; and that state resources are not used to favour some candidates more than others. Without a free and fair election, the Maldives long-term stability and prosperity will be at risk. My officials and I will be raising these points with representatives of the Government. We welcome the Government of the Maldives invitation to the Commonwealth Secretariat to send an observer team.

Secondary information