(Please contact Free Tibet Campaign if acting after 28 May 2004)

The Dalai Lama is visiting the UK between 28 May and 3 June 2004. However, Downing Street has already let it be known that the Prime Minister will be unable to meet the Dalai Lama because of "diary pressures". Free Tibet Campaign believes that the Prime Minister should make time in his diary for the Noble Laureate as it would send a powerful message to the Chinese Government in advance of the Dalai Lama's visit and a proposed visit by the Chinese Premier to the UK which will take place in a similar time period. Indeed, Blair has indicated his willingness to create space in his diary for important or symbolic events in the past, as was demonstrated by his last-minute reception of the winning English rugby team!

The Dalai Lama's visit to the UK comes at a crucial time as momentum created by re-opening formal contact between the Chinese Government and the exiled Tibetan Government (begun in September 2002) seems to be slowing down. International support is needed to bolster this effort and by meeting the Dalai Lama, Blair would demonstrate that the world requires results from China. The UK could play a key role in providing international support for this process given our historic connection to Tibet, illustrated by the fact that 2004 is the centenary year of the British invasion of Tibet led by Francis Younghusband!

The Dalai Lama last visited London in 1999 when he met with the Prime Minister and Richard Llewllin, Bishop at Lambeth in what was described as a "spiritual meeting", rather than a political one in order not to offend Chinese Government sensitivities. The USA has engaged in no such smoke-screen, as at least two Presidents have met with the Dalai Lama regularly ( George W Bush and Clinton). Moreover, it is important for the UK to take a strong public stand on the need for a negotiated settlement during the Dalai Lama's visit, particularly as Chinese Prime Minister ,Wen Jiabao is expected to visit London in May or June. China will be paying very close attention to how the UK handles the Dalai Lama's visit. A strong UK position on Tibet, both publicly and behind the scenes, would be most helpful in encouraging real progress. ( There will be an urgent campaign on the Chinese Premier's visit as soon as the dates of his are confirmed).

Action

1. Write directly to Tony Blair MP urging him to make time in his diary to meet with the Dalai Lama or to issue a public statement of concern about Tibet. Point out that the Noble Peace Laureate, who received his reward 15 years ago, is an important figure in helping to reach a peaceful negotiated settlement to Tibet. Furthermore, state that a meeting with Blair would act as an incentive to the Chinese Government to continue the process, particularly with a scheduled visit by the Chinese Premier in a similar time period. Highlight the fact that it is the centenary year of the British invasion of Tibet and that it thus incumbent upon the UK to act with honour in regard to Tibet.

2. Write to your MP and urge them to sign EDM 437 (calls on the Prime Minister to make time in his diary to meet the Dalai Lama), or to make a public statement on Tibet. You can use www.faxyourmp.com to contact your MP via the internet or write via the House of Commons (see below)

Also ask your MP to write directly to Mr Blair urging him to meet with the Dalai Lama or to make a public statement on Tibet.

1. Rt Hon Tony Blair MP
10 Downing St
London SW1A 1AA
Salutation: Dear Prime Minister

2. Write to your MP
c/o House of Commons
London SW1A 0AA


Please send copies of any responses you receive to Free Tibet Campaign, as this helps us to monitor the situation.