Written question asked by Angus Robertson (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 12 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 May 2004. It was answered by Bill Rammell (Labour) on Thursday, 20 May 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, what discussions (a) he, (b) members of his Department and (c) other United Kingdom representatives have (i) had and (ii) sought with (A) members and (B) representatives of the (1) Government of and (2) the opposition in Venezuela concerning the arrest of 80 Colombian nationals on 9th May; what these individuals are being charged with; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions (a) he, (b) members of his Department and (c) other United Kingdom representatives have (i) had and (ii) sought with (A) members and (B) representatives of the (1) Government of and (2) the opposition in Venezuela concerning the arrest of 80 Colombian nationals on 9 May; what these individuals are being charged with; and if he will make a statement. [173815] Mr. Rammell: We have neither had nor sought discussions with members or representatives of the Venezuelan Government or Opposition about this issue. To date, we are not aware of any charges having been brought against these individuals.

Secondary information