Algeria
Debate between Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon and Lord Dholakia
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
My noble friend always speaks with great authority and passion about the Commonwealth. Once again, he has indicated something on which I think our ministerial colleagues should reflect. I shall certainly take that back to the FCO.
Lord Dholakia (LD)
My Lords, my noble friend will be aware that our Government are involved in projects designed to promote stability and peace in Algeria. To what extent are the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy involved in such projects? What mechanisms are being established so that there is proper evaluation of the outcomes?
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
I think the organisations to which my noble friend has alluded, not just in Algeria but across the world, play a very important role. It has to be made clear that this is not about interference; it is about the value of sharing good practice and governance procedures. I would point out that Algeria increasingly sees itself as an exporter of stability. For example, it recently hosted peace talks between the Malian Government and opposition groups, and it co-operates well on border security with Mali. Over recent months, Algeria and Tunisia have also increased their co-operation on security issues of mutual concern.
Tanzania: North Mara Mine
Debate between Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon and Lord Dholakia
Lord Dholakia (LD)
My Lords, there is a lawsuit by the local residents against the company alleging that it is responsible for injuries to local villagers. While we await the outcome in the court, would it be appropriate to ask the Tanzanian Government about the role of the police in the death of at least six villagers? Should we not encourage them to investigate this matter, as a human rights violation in those mining communities? I declare an interest, as one born in Tanzania.
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
My noble friend, of course, knows the country much better than I, and I take on board his valid points. My understanding is indeed that the police authorities and the local authorities are looking at the incident and investigating it. I assure my noble friend that my honourable friend Mark Simmonds, the Minister for Africa, has raised the issue on three separate occasions this year when meeting officials from the Government.