Posted on 2015-01-05 | 04:33

Roger is one of a group of MPs and MSPs who have condemned recent violence in Venezuela by far-right opposition groups, which aim to oust the country’s elected government. The group also support the Venezuelan president’s calls for peace and dialogue.

The group of UK politicians condemned the sanctions against Venezuela which were suggested by some members of the US congress. They commented: “We agree with the Organisation of American States in its call for "respect for the principle of non-intervention in the internal affairs of states and its commitment to the defence of democratic institutionalism of the state of law”. They therefore disagree with all external interference, including sanctions which could contribute to the impoverishment of the people of Venezuela.

Commented Roger: “There is no point in rushing into economic sanctions which will isolate Venezuela from the international community while pushing its citizens into economic hardship. The right to peacefully protest must be protected, as must the right of a democratically elected government to run the country without outside interference. The priority for all sides must be the wellbeing, prosperity and right to self-determination and freedom of expression of the people of Venezuela.”