LIFTING OF THE PARLIAMENTARY IMMUNITY OF SAM RAINSY IN CAMBODIA

Early day motion 764, tabled 23 February 2005 by Tom Brake (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 30 members.

That this House condemns the surprise decision on 3rd February by the National Assembly of Cambodia to lift the parliamentary immunity of three members of the opposition party, Mr Sam Rainsy, Mr Chea Poch and Mr Cheam Channy; further condemns the subsequent unlawful arrest of Mr Channy; registers its deep regret at the deterioration of democracy in Cambodia; joins the international community in protesting against the treatment of Mr Rainsy, Mr Poch and Mr Channy; supports the compelling argument in favour of suspension of economic aid as an effective force for change; with great urgency calls on the UK Government to request the Cambodian authorities to stop any form of prosecution against Sam Rainsy, Chea Poch and Cheam Channy; and further calls on the UK Government to suspend UK aid to Cambodia until the full restoration of the rights of the opposition party.

Signatures by party: Labour 15, Liberal Democrat 12, Conservative 1, Labour/Co-operative 1, Plaid Cymru 1.