The screening of the documentary proved extremely popular and was followed by a dialogue with Prof. Rajiva Wijesinha, MP, and Sir Peter Heap, KCMG, Chairman, Friends of Sri Lanka. Dr. Chris Nonis, High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in the UK introduced the documentary and chaired the panel discussion, stated the Sri Lanka High Commission in London.

This was the first time the government’s response to Channel 4 film “Sri Lanka’s Killing Fields” was screened in the UK to an audience consisting of British Parliamentarians, representatives from Academia, some media representatives including from Channel 4, and a cross-section of the Sri Lankan expatriates, the High Commission said.

Welcoming the participants, High Commissioner Dr. Nonis said it was a particular imperative to have this screening at the British Parliament at a time when Sri Lanka in the post-conflict era was firmly embarked on the process on reconciliation and reintegration following a 28 year conflict.

The extensive dialogue that followed the screening focused on the bias and partiality of the Channel 4 documentary and its lack of objectivity, with several participants stressing the need to move forward. The inaccuracy of the allegations and innuendos of the Channel 4 documentary was noted, with evidence from the UN panel that indicated editing, whereas an aide to one of the Members of the Parliament who had been critical of Sri Lanka declared that Channel 4 had claimed that there had been no editing. The Channel 4 reporter remarked that, not being on the Panel, she would not clarify the matter, but it had been noted that it would not be correct to embarrass her by requesting this.

The High Commissioner thanked all those present and reaffirmed his country’s willingness to engage in discussion with all those committed to the welfare of the Sri Lankan people. Further, the High Commissioner noted that what was needed amongst us all to rebuild the nation was an attitude of mind and an aptitude of heart.