FCO Minister extremely concerned about situation in Thailand

27 May 2014 03:39 PM

Foreign Office Minister concerned by democratic deterioration, restrictions on media, expression and assembly in Thailand. 

Speaking this week, the Minister of State responsible for South East Asia, Hugo Swire, said:

I am extremely concerned at the deterioration of the democratic environment in Thailand. Arbitrary detentions, restrictions on local and foreign media, and limitations on freedoms of expression and assembly undermine trust in the intentions of the military leaders. I urge the Thai military authorities to provide a clear timetable for the restoration of civilian government by means of elections, in line with democratic values, and to respond proportionately to peaceful protest and dissent. In view of these negative developments, the UK is reviewing the scope of its cooperation with Thailand.

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