No UK influence in drafting new constitution: Swire

UK Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Hugo Swire says that the UK government will not interfere in formulating the new constitution of Sri Lanka.

UK Minister Hugo Swire made the observation at a press conference held in Colombo this afternoon (16). While responding to a question by Ada Derana reporter, he added that “the UK government will neither pressurize nor influence the new constitution making but welcomes Govt’s initiative in its changes.”

“I have been encouraged and impressed by President Maithripala Sirisena’s government, and the present human rights situation in Sri Lanka,” said Swire. He also pointed out the importance of establishing a non-residential Defence Attaché between the two countries. 

The Minister went on to say that the United Kingdom has much to offer and it is determined to assist Sri Lanka in future.

Swire also assured that the UK government will extend its assistant, if there is a move to amend the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).

Earlier yesterday, the Prime Minister described the PTA as an ‘expired’ act. He stated that in the future Sri Lanka could face international terrorism-related problems and should the need arise a law similar to that the United Kingdom would be introduced. “That process will be accomplished by the middle of the year.”