13 June 2007 :
Speech
International Criminal Court: northern Uganda
Mark Pritchard (The Wrekin) (Con): On the wider point—the Minister mentioned the world—and particularly with respect to Uganda and the International Criminal Court warrant for Kony, the Lord’s Resistance Army rebel leader, does the Minister agree that, although the ICC is well meaning, an arrest warrant prior to any settlement or the signing of any peace treaty may sometimes hinder rather than help peace?
Dr. Howells: I would have to look at that assertion on a case-by-case basis. The hon. Gentleman mentions northern Uganda. I know that he feels strongly about these issues, so I am sure that he would not like anyone in Uganda or its neighbouring countries to sense a degree of impunity regarding the crimes that they have committed and continue to commit. We would have to look into that matter very carefully and on a case-by-case basis, as I said, but I take his point. It can be a very sensitive issue, which has to be considered very carefully. Related Link: Mark Pritchard visits northern Uganda
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