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Written question asked by Lord Coaker (Labour) on Monday, 2 September 2019, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 5 September 2019 (named day). It was answered by Heather Wheeler (Conservative) on Thursday, 5 September 2019 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Kashmir: Politics and Government

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what representations he has made to his Indian counterpart on the revocation of Article 370 of the constitution; and if he will make a statement.

Answer

We are following the serious situation in Kashmir closely. Events in Kashmir have regional and international implications and we urge calm and caution from all.

We are in regular contact with the Government of India. We are also in regular contact with the Government of Pakistan. The PM has spoken with both PM Modi of India and PM Imran Khan of Pakistan. He stressed to both that HMG's position on Kashmir remains unchanged (it is a bilateral issue for India and Pakistan to resolve, taking into account the wishes of the Kashmiri people). He also underlined the importance of maintaining dialogue. In addition to this, the Foreign Secretary spoke with his Indian counterpart Dr Jaishankar on 7 August. He expressed concerns and called for calm. The continued use of detentions and restrictions on communications are worrying. It is important individual rights are fully respected and there should be constructive dialogue with affected communities.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
284869
Session
2017-19
Subjects
India Politics and government Kashmir
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk