Mr Liu Zhongyi
hister of Agriculture
As you know, when I met Vice Premier Wu Xueqian on 28 September, we discussed, amongst other subjects, the position of
Catholics in China.
Roman
I and my colleagues are very concerned to improve the relationship and understanding between our two countries.
It was with exactly that in mind that I raised the subject of the Roman Catholic Church with Vice Premier Wu. As a active lay member of the Church of England, I am often approached about the attitude
of the Chinese Government to Roman Catholics. It is of course an article of faith with Roman Catholics that they should be in communion with Rome, and for them to be imprisoned for their
beliefs is very difficult for those who approach me understand. I fully appreciate the
to
desire, and need, for China
its affairs: but equally,
to avoid foreign intervention in
China's actions have an influence on the attitude of others, and
I am very concerned to make that attitude as positive as possible.
I append a list of Roman Catholic bishops and priests whom I understand are currently in detention or under surveillance/house arrest. I would be very grateful if you could ask your Ministerial colleagues to look into the circumstances of these cases, and if you could let me know how matters stand.
Thank you again for your hospitality and kindness during my
recent visit.
JOHN GUMMER