Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Monday, 14 March 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 22 March 2005. It was answered by Denis MacShane (Labour) on Tuesday, 22 March 2005 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what representations he has made to the government of Sudan concerning its use of arrest of civilians in Darfur on the basis that they are helping the Sudan Liberation Army.

Answer: Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of Sudan concerning its use of arrest of civilians in Darfur on the basis that they are helping the Sudan Liberation Army. [222392] Mr. MacShane: We make frequent representations to the Government of Sudan on the need for it to abide by international humanitarian and human rights law. We have stressed the need to stop arbitrary arrests as part of this commitment. We continue to make clear to the Government of Sudan and the rebel factions that they must respect the ceasefire in Darfur, and fulfil their commitments under the Abuja Humanitarian and Security Protocols. They must take all steps to prevent attacks, threats, intimidation and any other form of violence, including arbitrary arrests, against civilians by any party or group.

Secondary information