To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he expects a second EU delegation to visit Orissa. (284451)

An EU delegation, which included a representative from our high commission in New Delhi, visited Orissa between 9-12 December 2008 to assess the latest situation. A second visit was planned for spring 2009, but was then postponed. We have not yet been informed of the new dates.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether his Department has had discussions with the Indian government on the protection of Christians called as witnesses in trials relating to the recent violence in Orissa. (284452)

We have not discussed the protection of Christians called as witnesses in trials relating to the recent violence in Orissa with the Indian Government. The EU maintains a constructive dialogue with the Indian authorities about human rights and minority rights issues, which includes the situation in Orissa and its neighbouring states following the violence in 2008. Officials from our high commission have had an active part in these discussions.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with his international counterparts on the UN’s role in Orissa since the publication of the UN’s recent report on Orissa; and if he will make a statement. (284575)

We are aware of a report issued by the UN Special Rapporteur for freedom of religion or belief following a UN mission to India in 2008. However, we have not been involved in discussions with international partners about the UN’s role in Orissa, beyond noting the conclusions and recommendations contained in that report. The UK already works multilaterally through the ongoing EU dialogue with the Indian authorities on minority rights, which includes the situation in Orissa.