RIGHTS

CHRISTIAN SOLIDARITY WORLDWIDE

For immediate release

May 2002

WIDESPREAD CROSS-PARTY SUPPORT FOR PARLIAMENTARY MOTIONS ON HUMAN RIGHTS

More than 100 MPs have signed four separate parliamentary motions calling on the UK Government to speak up for human rights in China, Sudan, North Korea and Pakistan.

Andy King, Labour MP for Rugby and Kenilworth, worked with CSW's Parliamentary Officer, Dr Alan Hobson, to produce three of the four Early Day Motions (EDMs).

Mr King said: "I'm really pleased that these motions have gained so much support. We're doing everything possible to support tolerance and to promote respect for people's right to worship freely."

The motions have attracted widespread cross-party support, with the Pakistan, China and North Korea EDMs attracting support from every party represented at Westminster.

EDMs, though rarely debated, are tabled by MPs to raise awareness of issues and to show the level of concern for the matters raised.

* The EDM on China calls attention to the death sentences imposed on five Christian leaders and the severe clampdown on other Christians.

* The EDM on Pakistan calls for reform of the blasphemy law, under which Christians have been left on death row.

* The EDM on North Korea draws attention to the fate of Christians and others incarcerated in political prison camps in North Korea, one of the most closed countries in the world.

* The EDM on Sudan, co-sponsored by CSW and the Associate Parliamentary Group on Sudan, calls for an end to trying non-Muslims under Shari'ah law and for the UK Government to put human rights at the forefront of its dialogue with the National Islamic Front regime.

Mervyn Thomas, Chief Executive of CSW, said: "The widespread cross-party support for these motions is extremely encouraging and shows the depth of support there is for this Government to place human rights at the forefront of its dealings with foreign powers.

"We continue to urge Jack Straw and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to raise human rights concerns when they are meeting with ambassadors and when they visit other countries.

"In a time of international tension, human rights must not be sidelined, but must always be at the heart of the political agenda."

For more information contact Richard Chilvers at Christian Solidarity Worldwide on 020 8942 8810 or email