DHAKA: The UK’s Minister of State for International Development Alan Duncan arrived here Monday to check progress on health and safety standards in the garment industry.

He also will check how such an important industry for Bangladesh’s economic and social development is supporting its workers, including the many women it employs.  

Alan Duncan will also press home for political dialogue to strengthen democratic accountability.

British High Commission to Dhaka made the disclosure through a press release.

It said that the minister will also visit Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Foreign Minister AH Mahmud Ali and other political leaders.

The release said: “With the first anniversary of the Rana Plaza collapse in April, Mr Duncan is keen to see how the garment industry has responded, how it is looking after those affected and improving working conditions to prevent further tragedies.  

He will meet with people involved in the garment supply chain to discuss progress and challenges remaining.”

It also reiterated about UK government’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development and progress towards the Millennium Development Goals.

Alan Duncan last visited Bangladesh in June 2013.  This is his fourth visit in his current role.

BDST: 1720 HRS, MAR 31, 2014