REGISTRATION OF POLITICAL PARTIES IN THE MALDIVES

Early day motion 508, tabled 5 July 2005 by Mark Oaten (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 49 members.

That this House welcomes the registration of political parties in the Maldives on 27th June and expresses hope that this will allow meaningful and popular involvement in the continuing political and constitutional reforms; notes that an independent judiciary and a free and vibrant press are also critical aspects of a functioning democracy; calls upon the UK Government to urge speedy elections as the most appropriate means to bring about a representative government for the people of Maldives; and expresses concern at the disruption of British aid to the Maldives and continued reports of human rights abuse as well as the recent construction of large detention facilities and solitary confinement blocks on Himafushi island.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 35, Conservative 7, Labour 6, DUP 1.