Release Of Political Prisoners In Burma (No. 2)

EDM number 2258 in 2010-12, proposed by Valerie Vaz on 17/10/2011.
Categorised under the topics of Asia and International politics and government.

That this House acknowledges the reported release of approximately 100 political prisoners in Burma, according to figures from the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners; welcomes the release of any political prisoners; is, however, concerned that the number of releases is small relative to the high number of political prisoners who remain in detention; notes that previous mass releases of political prisoners in Burma have not historically led to significant democratic reform or a long-term reduction in the number of political prisoners; further notes the view of the Burma Campaign UK that the release of political prisoners would have to be a significant change from what has gone before if it is to signify the possibility that real change is on the way, and the view of the National League for Democracy which has stated that the release of all political prisoners is a key benchmark for change; is further concerned by reports that activists are still being arrested and jailed, and that the laws that allowed them to be arrested are still in place; and calls on the Government to make representations for the release of all political prisoners and the promotion and protection of human rights in Burma.

This motion has been signed by a total of 29 MPs.