Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of reports of sexual violence in conflict in Burma.

We remain deeply concerned by reports of sexual violence and other human rights violations in Burma. While there are signs that incidents of sexual violence have decreased since the Burmese government signed ceasefire agreements with a number of non-state armed groups, it remains a serious problem. The UK remain one of the most vocal and active members of the international community in supporting those calling for the respect of human rights in Burma. We raise our strong concerns with senior members of the Burmese government and military regularly. We have made clear to the Burmese government that allegations of human rights abuses must be dealt with through clear, independent and transparent investigative and prosecutorial processes which meet international standards.