Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have had ministerial discussions with the government of the Republic of South Africa on a joint approach to the political and economic crisis in Zimbabwe following (1) reports of the violent assault and torture of Joanna Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova, and (2) the decision of the Zimbabwe authorities to conduct a trial against them for demonstrating against food shortages in hospital.

We have not discussed the situation in Zimbabwe with South Africa at a Ministerial level since recent reports emerged regarding the abduction and torture of three female opposition activists in Zimbabwe. However, the UK regularly discusses the economic situation in Zimbabwe with its international partners, including the Republic of South Africa. The UK is committed to working in partnership with South Africa, the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) and the African Union as well as other international organisations.

The UK is seriously concerned about the challenging human rights situation in Zimbabwe and these recent reports regarding the treatment of three opposition activists. The Minister for Africa spoke to the Zimbabwean Foreign Minister on 8 June and expressed his deep concern. He urged the Foreign Minister to ensure the Government of Zimbabwe makes concrete progress on human rights, including investigations into violations.

It is vital that the Zimbabwean authorities adhere to their international human rights obligations and respect their Constitution, which prohibits enforced disappearances and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. The UK will continue to monitor developments in Zimbabwe closely and call for the Government of Zimbabwe to uphold the rule of law and respect human rights.