Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Desmond Swayne and David Burrowes

Wednesday 3rd June 2015 Commons Chamber

[Mr Swayne]

Yes, and a director general of DFID is in Rakhine state as we speak, and we take every opportunity to push forward these matters.

[Mr David Burrowes (Enfield, Southgate) (Con)]

Surely, the plight of thousands of Rohingya people adrift in the bay of Bengal must call for greater leadership from not only the United Nations but the United Kingdom. Should we ensure not only that we make representations in meetings with ambassadors but that our taxpayers’ aid and access to our diplomatic doors are made contingent on ensuring proper recognition of the Rohingya and full respect of human rights?

[Mr Swayne]

Absolutely. I have taken every opportunity to raise this matter with Burmese Ministers. My caution with respect to my hon. Friend’s suggested course of action is that I am not prepared to withdraw British aid from poor people simply because of the regime under which they suffer.