That this House deplores the decision of the Sri Lankan President, Mrs Kumaratunga, to impose a new series of emergency regulations; notes that the regulations, imposed on 3rd May, restrict press freedom, limit freedom of association, authorise detention without trial and negate the right to private property; further notes that this is wholly counter to the spirit of the recent EU note to the Sri Lankan Government calling for respect for human rights and in direct contravention of the UN Charter on Human Rights; and urges the Foreign Secretary to make urgent representations to the Sri Lankan High Commissioner in London, making clear his deep concern at the draconian new regulations which impose a wholly unacceptable restriction on legitimate political activity and the freedom of the press ahead of the Sri Lankan general election, and seeking assurances that these elections will be conducted in an atmosphere free of intimidation and violence.

That this House deplores the decision of the Sri Lankan President, Mrs Kumaratunga, to impose a new series of emergency regulations; notes that the regulations, imposed on 3rd May, restrict press freedom, limit freedom of association, authorise detention without trial and negate the right to private property; further notes that...