Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Lidington and Alun Michael

Tuesday 29th November 2011 Commons Chamber

[Alun Michael (Cardiff South and Penarth) (Lab/Co-op)]

T5. What assessment have Ministers made of the current political situation in Moldova, especially in view of the news of a delay in electing a new president?

[The Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington)]

The further delay in electing a new president is dismaying, but we welcome the fact that the 5 plus 2 talks are due to commence formally again very soon. It is in the interests of the whole of Europe for Moldova to move as swiftly as possible towards entrenching democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Lidington and Alun Michael

Tuesday 9th November 2010 Commons Chamber

[Alun Michael (Cardiff South and Penarth) (Lab/Co-op)]

14. What his most recent assessment is of the political situation in Moldova; and if he will make a statement.

[The Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington)]

Early parliamentary elections will be held in Moldova on 28 November 2010. It is important that these elections are held to internationally accepted democratic standards. High standards of democracy, human rights and media freedom are essential for Moldova to continue to move closer to the mainstream of the European family of nations, and the UK is playing a full role in monitoring those elections.

[Alun Michael]

I thank the Minister for that reply, which is encouraging about the processes. Does he agree that it is important that we help to consolidate the democratic processes in Moldova, and help to resolve the problem of Transnistria? Does he encourage British MPs to engage with our counterparts in the Moldovan Parliament towards those ends?

[Mr Lidington]

I certainly encourage colleagues on both sides of the House to engage in the way that the right hon. Gentleman, who is vice-chairman of the all-party group on Moldova, suggests. When I visited Moldova recently, I was struck by the courage and determination of the democratic politicians there. I think it is important for all parties in this House to demonstrate our support for Moldovan democracy.