As I stated in my reply to questions on 30 May, the Government supports measures which will maintain political and economic pressure on the Nigerian regime to take specific steps towards an early transition to democracy and full respect for human rights and the rule of law. On that occasion I also confirmed that we have been unequivocal in our support for the introduction of such measures as an oil embargo as a catalyst for meaningful reform. This continues to be the Government's position. We recognise however, that to be effective additional measures such as an oil embargo will need widespread international support. We therefore support EU consultation with like-minded states on the adoption of these and other appropriate measures. We are working closely with EU partners and like-minded states in this regard.
The Government supports the view that multi-nationals such as Shell should carefully consider the environmental impact of their business operations. There is a clear responsibility on them to do so. There is also an onus on the Nigerian Government and state partners in oil production to do likewise and to ensure that the benefits of mineral extraction are also conferred on the local population and that they have proper legal redress where they suffer from environmental damage.
