To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to seek the release of Roy Bennett, designated Deputy Minister of Agriculture on the National Unity Government of Zimbabwe to (a) the government of Zimbabwe, (b) other states in the region and (c) international organisations; and if he will make a statement. (258839)

My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary in his statement of 11 February 2009 called for the immediate release of all political detainees. Our officials made clear to the Zimbabwean embassy in London our concerns about detainees on 16 February 2009 including Roy Bennett.

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) brokered the power-sharing agreement, and has responsibility for supporting its implementation. We will continue to work closely with SADC, EU partners and the international community to capitalise on this opportunity to promote reform and human rights in Zimbabwe.

The statement made by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary on 11 February 2009 is available for viewing at the following internet address:

http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/newsroom/latest-news/?view= PressS&id=13462857