A/HRC/8/25
Page 15
Norway noted the extension of the pretrial detention period but refrained from asking a question on
this which had already been extensively referred to.
50. Noting that the phenomenon of migration is a global concern, Ecuador asked the delegation
what steps are being taken by the United Kingdom to become a party to ICRMW. It noted that this
was also a recommendation.
51. Argentina noted that paragraph 8 of the national report referring to Overseas Territories
mentions the Falkland Islands (Malvinas),∗ South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands, and
rejected the inclusion of these alleged Overseas Territories in the report since these territories are
part of Argentina and are currently illegally occupied by the United Kingdom. Argentina noted that
this illegal occupation led the General Assembly to adopt several resolutions on the question of
Falkland Islands (Malvinas) which recognize the existence of a dispute over sovereignty of these
territories and which urge the Governments of Argentina and the United Kingdom to resume
negotiations with a view to arriving at a peaceful, lasting solution to the dispute. With regard to
paragraph 16 of the national report referring to the applicability of international conventions to
British Overseas Territories, Argentina noted that without prejudice to the relevance of article IV of
the Antarctic Treaty, it rejects British pretention to sovereignty in Antarctica and the inclusion in
the report of the title “British Antarctic Territory”.
52. Israel noted with interest the “Asylum Support” system of financial assistance given to those
seeking asylum while they await adjudication of their claim. In this regard, Israel asked whether this
assistance is afforded to anyone, regardless of their legal status. Referring to the concerns expressed
by the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights in 2002 regarding the national
minimum wage that may not provide workers with an adequate standard of living, Israel asked how
the United Kingdom is addressing this concern, and how often this issue is reviewed within the
relevant departments.
53. Indonesia welcomed the United Kingdom’s assertions as regards its commitment to
human rights in all its territories, and requested clarifications regarding two issues. While
recognizing the efforts made by the United Kingdom, Indonesia noted that some reports mentioned
that discrimination and inequalities continue to persist and affect individuals belonging to certain
ethnic minority communities in the areas of education, health, employment, housing and access to
justice. Furthermore, Indonesia noted that negative and inaccurate reporting by certain media has
contributed to hostile attitudes towards, in particular, gypsies and travellers, asylum-seekers,
migrant workers and Muslims. It also noted an increased number of incidents motivated by racial
and religious hatred in the country. Indonesia asked what measures the Government has taken to
address this discrimination, and similarly, as regards the reported upsurge of Islamophobia and
religious violence targeting specific minorities. Finally, while welcoming the ratification of CRC in
1991, Indonesia noted that only one of the two Optional Protocols - on the involvement of children
in armed conflict - has been ratified. It further noted with regret that two reservations to CRC
remain and recommended that the United Kingdom withdraw its reservations.
54. Brazil asked the delegation to comment on the assessment that the legislation on refugees and
asylum-seekers has become increasingly restrictive, with detrimental effects on their living
∗
A dispute exists between the Governments of Argentina and the United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland concerning sovereignty over the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) (see
ST/CS/SER.A/42).
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