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Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Wednesday, 7 March 2018, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 March 2018 (named day). It was answered by Mark Field (Conservative) on Monday, 12 March 2018 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Sri Lanka: Community Relations

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what assessment he has made of the effect of the declaration of a state of emergency on communal violence Sri Lanka.

Answer

I remain concerned by the current inter-communal violence in Sri Lanka, and have written to Foreign Minister Marapana setting out my views. We support the government's determination to end it swiftly, using measures that are proportionate and respect human rights, and urge it to hold the perpetrators to account. It is vital that all leaders in Sri Lanka condemn violence and hate, and make every effort to promote harmony.

The UK is committed to supporting government and civil society efforts to improve human rights in Sri Lanka. We are currently funding a range of projects through a multi-year Conflict Stability and Security Fund programme to promote inter-faith and inter-communal dialogue and dispute resolution at local level in eastern Sri Lanka, one of the most diverse regions.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
131478
Session
2017-19
Subjects
Community relations Violence Sri Lanka
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk