Hague calls for immediate ceasefire in Sri Lanka

William Hague said he is "deeply concerned" about the humanitarian crisis in northern Sri Lanka and has called for an immediate ceasefire between the Government and the LTTE (the Tamil Tigers).

He warned that innocent civilians have been trapped by the fighting, and stressed that both parties must act to prevent further suffering.

"We call for an immediate ceasefire on both sides to allow the civilians to leave the conflict area, to be monitored by international observers including the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross."

William called on the Sri Lankan Government to help alleviate the humanitarian situation by allowing aid to reach those who so need it and ensuring international humanitarian standards are fully respected in the camps for displaced people.

And he stressed, "The only way forward is a negotiated settlement that satisfies the concerns and legitimate aspirations of all Sri Lankans and preserves democracy in the country."