All 1 Debates between Gareth Thomas and Lee Scott

Tue 8th Jan 2013

Sri Lanka

Debate between Gareth Thomas and Lee Scott
Tuesday 8th January 2013

(11 years, 11 months ago)

Westminster Hall
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Lee Scott Portrait Mr Scott
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Thank you, Mr Hollobone. Can I have 30 seconds back for that?

All I really want to say is that I want justice for the Tamil people and for all Sri Lankans. For that to happen, however, the UN must play its role. Over a number of years, it let down the Tamil people and allowed things to happen that should never have been allowed.

Gareth Thomas Portrait Mr Thomas
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I note the Chair’s comments about the time, and I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for giving way. Does he share the view of my hon. Friend the Member for Mitcham and Morden (Siobhain McDonagh) that it would be wrong for Britain to attend the Commonwealth summit in Sri Lanka unless there is a dramatic change in the situation on the ground?

Lee Scott Portrait Mr Scott
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I hope the Minister will address the issues that have been raised—

Gareth Thomas Portrait Mr Thomas
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Where do you stand?

Lee Scott Portrait Mr Scott
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Where do I stand? I am sorry, Mr Hollobone. The hon. Gentleman and I should not be having a conversation across the room. I apologise for that, as I am sure he does. Where do I stand? I want to see reconciliation and justice before any such thing happens. I think that is clear.

In my final 20 seconds, I should say that the Tamil people have suffered, and their diaspora suffers. There must be justice for all, but most importantly, at the UN’s meetings in March, I would like to hear what the Sri Lankan Government will do to ensure that an international inquiry shows what has happened and who is responsible so that those involved are brought to justice. I have gone five seconds over, Mr Hollobone, so I apologise.