950811

Gilani asks Babar

for arrangements

to visit

detained MNAs

RECORDER REPORT

MULTAN: Speaker of National Assembly, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has asked Federal Interior Minister Naseerullah Khan Babar to make arrangements for his visit to District Jail, Multan and Bahawalpur to see Shaikh Muhammad Rashid, MNA, Shaikh Tahir Rashid, MNA and Haji Muhammad Boota, MNA and to inquire whether all facilities according to the Jail Manual are being provided or not.

In his Press talk, the Speaker said on Friday that he had promised to visit jails in the flour of the house which was highly appreciated by the members.

He had also referred the case of Shaikh Tahir Rashid to the government for treatment abroad.

Speaker said that opposition should join the meetings of National Assembly Standing Committee to reach any decision otherwise ex-parte decision would be taken by these committees. He was of the view that no political force which believes in democracy, election and struggle is disloyal to the country or the nation, and "we should not brand them as traitors".

He reiterated his point of view that government should provide solid proof against MQM, which could prove its indulgence in terrorist activities.

He said he was ready to convene an in camera assembly session to take all parties into confidence on the issue of national security.

To a question, Gilani said that he could not have his ruling regarding the production of detained MNAs implemented by force.