UK MPs stress for restoration of democracy in Nepal

Kathmandu, Mar 20: A delegation of British MPs visiting Nepal has said that Britain wants to see the restoration of democracy and peace in the Himalayan Kingdom.

'We want to see a restored parliamentary democracy and is ready to assist in this cause,' said Sir John Stanley, leader of the six- member parliamentary delegation.

"In Britain, we are wholly supportive and honestly wish to see the peaceful restoration of parliamentary democracy in this country and an end to the present conflict," he said.

"Nepal is a sovereign country and the resolution of the serious problems Nepal faces must lie with the people of Nepal'' Sir Stanley said.

He said if Britain can make some contribution, however small, to the peaceful re-emergence of stability and multi-party democracy, their visit will have been well worthwhile.

Sir Stanley is the chairman of the Britain-Nepal Parliamentary Group in the British Parliament and a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the House of Commons.

"The deep concern of the British Government over the suspension of parliamentary democracy, terrorism and violations of human rights in Nepal is a concern shared throughout our parliament and by all political parties in Britain," he said.

The UK delegation comprises parliamentarians of Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democratic parties.

Britain had suspended military aid to Nepal after the coup of the King on February 1 last year.

UNI