A/56/253 this particular matter from its beginning it would be more efficient to procure the services of a professional lawyer familiar with the provisions of the internal legislation who could help in the preparation of all the appropriate papers. “Whatever the circumstances, the Government of Uzbekistan makes every effort to ensure that all confessions in Uzbekistan are treated without any prejudice and on the bases of equality, respect and privileges.” 22. The Special Rapporteur wishes to thank Uzbekistan for this specific and very useful information. Lao People’s Democratic Republic 23. In connection with a communication from the Special Rapporteur (para. 123), the Lao People’s Democratic Republic has provided the following explanation: “The allegation is false and groundless. Such allegation is deliberately fabricated for political ends with the mere aim of discrediting the image of the Lao Government and misleading the Christian community around the world about the reality of the situation in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The fact is that more that 150 churches are operative in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and none of them has been shut down. The Lao Christian believers practise their religion freely, go to the church of their choice and live in harmony with other religious communities such as Buddhists, animists, Muslims, Baha’i and so on. “As you are aware, article 30 of the Constitution of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic clearly stipulates that the Lao people have the right to profess or not to profess any religion. It should be emphasized that no such harsh or draconian laws as allow the Government or individuals to arbitrarily force people to denounce their religious beliefs of their choice or launch a campaign or programme to shut down churches in Laos. And as a matter of policy, the Government does not practise or condone the practice of religious discrimination. “Since the foundation of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic on 2 December 1975, the Lao Government has attached great importance to the questions of peace, stability and national unity, which are prerequisites for national construction and development. Towards that end, the Government has pursued a policy of peace, friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance among the Lao communities of all ethnic groups. Any alternative contrary to the above-mentioned policy would be detrimental to the interests of the Lao people and is not acceptable to the Lao Government and people.” 24. The Special Rapporteur, while thanking the Lao People’s Democratic Republic for its reply, had hoped to receive specific information on the allegations that were submitted to him. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland 25. In reply to a communication from the Special Rapporteur (para. 124), the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland has provided the following explanation: 65