asked Her Majesty's Government:

What representations they have made to the Government of Burma about (a) the peaceful protests calling for democratic government; (b) the continued house arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi; and (c) the continued attacks on Burma's ethnic minorities; and what consideration they are giving to any additional measures or actions. [HL5385]

We have repeatedly condemned the Burmese Government's violent suppression of peaceful demonstrations, the continuing house arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi and the ongoing attacks on ethnic groups in Burma.

My right honourable friend the Prime Minister issued statements on 2 and 28 September condemning the Burmese Government's persistent abuse of human rights. He has called for the release of Aung San Suu Kyi.

We have extensively lobbied a wide range of other Governments, including China, India and Association of South East Asian Nations partners to draw attention to our serious concerns about the situation and called for their support to work for positive political progress and national reconciliation in Burma.

We are working with our EU partners to strengthen sanctions against the Burmese regime.

We continue to support the UN Secretary-General's “Good Offices” mandate on Burma. We welcome the recent visit of the Secretary-General's Special Adviser to Burma and will encourage him to return there to facilitate dialogue between the Burmese Government and democratic opposition.