Denis MacShane – 2004 Comments on the Political Situation in Belarus

The comments made by Denis MacShane, the then Minister of State for Europe, in the House of Commons on 20 July 2004.

The failure of the Belarussian Government to adhere to European standards in respect of human rights, freedom of expression and democracy in Belarus remains a matter of concern to the Government. It is too early to assess the likely conduct of the elections. We have made clear to the Belarussian Government that we expect the authorities in Minsk to ensure that the elections are free and fair and that international observers will be invited.