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967507

	registered interest
	date	04/09/2018
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Turkey: British Nationals Abroad
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 1 August (HL9596), whether ministers have discussed with their counterparts the conditions under which British nationals are held in Turkish jails; and whether any complaints have been raised by them over the way Turkish nationals in British jails have been treated in the last five years.
	tabling member printed	Lord Patten
	uin	HL9996
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 18/09/2018 answer text <p>No Ministerial level discussions have taken place with their counterparts on the conditions of Turkish prisons where British nationals are held. As mentioned on 1 August, a detained British national can contact our Embassy with any concerns about prison conditions and impact on their welfare. Consular staff will then raise these concerns directly with the appropriate authorities. We are not aware of any complaints raised by the Turkish authorities in the past five years with regards to the treatment of Turkish nationals in British jails.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 18/09/2018 15:08:22 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	1137 label Biography information for Lord Patten

967484

	registered interest
	date	04/09/2018
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Turkey: Human Rights
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of progress made by the Council of Europe’s project on improving the effectiveness of investigation of allegations of ill-treatment and combatting impunity in Turkey.
	tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
	uin	HL9976
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 18/09/2018 answer text <p>The project was launched in January this year and will run until mid-2019. While the UK is thoroughly supportive of the project it is too early to gauge progress. We will continue to monitor the activities of the project, which include workshops, training and mentoring, and to encourage the implementers to meet their objectives.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 18/09/2018 15:09:39 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

967405

	registered interest
	date	04/09/2018
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	UK Permanent Representation to the EU: Official Residences
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what are the cost, extent and purpose of the current refurbishment of the residence of the UK's Permanent Representative to the EU.
	tabling member printed	Lord Balfe
	uin	HL9906
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 18/09/2018 answer text <p>There is no current refurbishment of the UK Permanent Representative to the European Union’s Residence in Brussels. We are, however, currently undertaking routine maintenance to the front of the building.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 18/09/2018 15:30:09 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4302 label Biography information for Lord Balfe

967403

	registered interest
	date	04/09/2018
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Turkey: Detainees
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government how many cases of persons held in detention in Turkey have been raised with the government of Turkey as a result of discussions and decisions taken by the EU member states acting in political co-operation.
	tabling member printed	Lord Balfe
	uin	HL9905
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 18/09/2018 answer text <p>We closely coordinate our approach to human rights-related work in Turkey with EU and other likeminded countries, such as Canada and Switzerland. We do not reveal details of all the cases we have collectively raised. We will continue to cooperate with our partners in this important field.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 18/09/2018 15:08:34 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4302 label Biography information for Lord Balfe

967402

	registered interest
	date	04/09/2018
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Turkey: Detainees
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what criteria they use when deciding which cases of persons in detention to raise with the government of Turkey.
	tabling member printed	Lord Balfe
	uin	HL9904
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 18/09/2018 answer text <p>As explained in HL9056, when deciding which specific detention cases to raise with the Turkish authorities we examine each on a case by case basis, noting the nature of the charge and length of detention. This year we have raised several cases, mainly concerning human rights defenders and journalists. We will continue to engage with the Turkish authorities on these important human rights concerns.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 18/09/2018 15:11:48 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4302 label Biography information for Lord Balfe

967401

	registered interest
	date	04/09/2018
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Turkey: Detainees
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer from Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 26 July (HL9469), how many separate cases of detention in Turkey have been raised with the government of Turkey; and on how many occasions each of those cases of detention have been raised.
	tabling member printed	Lord Balfe
	uin	HL9903
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 18/09/2018 answer text <p>We do not reveal details of all the cases we have raised with the Turkish authorities nor the frequency with which we have raised them. However we will continue to raise key human rights issues, including individual cases where appropriate and in accordance with the criteria outlined in HL9904 with Turkey.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 18/09/2018 15:12:18 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4302 label Biography information for Lord Balfe

1169241

	registered interest
	date	07/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Eritrea: Refugees
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent assessment they have made of the risk to Eritrean refugees of being forcibly returned to Eritrea by the government of Sudan contrary to the principle of non-refoulement.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL97
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 15/01/2020 answer text <p>​We do not currently assess that Eritrean refugees are at risk of being forcibly returned to Eritrea by the Government of Sudan. The Government of Sudan hosts more than one million registered refugees, including almost 125,000 Eritreans. We continue to support efforts to improve conditions for refugees in Sudan of all nationalities. However, we are aware of recent reports of Eritrean and other migrants being apprehended by police in Khartoum and we appeal to the Government of Sudan to ensure that the fundamental rights of all migrants and refugees in Sudan are respected. We will raise this issue as part of bilateral discussions with the Government of Sudan.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 15/01/2020 12:40:29 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1174499

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	British Indian Ocean Territory: Sovereignty
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their latest policy on the Chagos Islands; and what assessment they have made of the UN General Assembly's resolution 73/295 Advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the legal consequences of the separation of the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius in 1965, of 22 May 2019.
	tabling member printed	Viscount Waverley
	uin	HL959
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>We have no doubt about our sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), which has been under continuous British sovereignty since 1814. We have made a long-standing commitment to cede sovereignty of the territory to Mauritius when it is no longer required for defence purposes. We stand by that commitment.</p><p>We were disappointed this matter was referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), contrary to the principle that the Court should not consider bilateral disputes without the consent of both States concerned. The United Kingdom respects the ICJ and participated fully in the advisory proceedings in good faith. However, we do not share the ICJ's approach and have made known our views on the content of the opinion, including its insufficient regard to significant material facts and legal issues. The ICJ's opinion is advisory and not legally binding. Resolution 73/295 does not and cannot create any legal obligations for UN Member States.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 13:09:35 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	1744 label Biography information for Viscount Waverley

1174488

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Hajer Mansoor Hassan
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 27 January (HL345), in forming their assessment of the case of Hajer Mansoor, what consideration they have given to the findings of independent experts, in particular: (1) the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention published on 7 January 2019; (2) the open letter published in The Guardian on 11 April 2019, signed by 54 signatories including prominent MPs and QCs; (3) an assessment by Amnesty International published on 22 February 2019 declaring Bahraini political prisoner Hajer Mansoor’s imprisonment to be arbitrary and in reprisal for Sayed Ahmed Alwadaei’s human rights work; and (4) other relevant findings.
	tabling member printed	Lord Scriven
	uin	HL948
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 11/02/2020 answer text <p>The British Government takes note of a number of sources of information on Bahrain when making our assessment; including publications and statements from non-governmental organisations. As I stated in my answer to PQ HL345, we have raised the case of Hajer Mansoor at senior levels with the Government of Bahrain. We have been given categorical assurance privately and Bahrain have stated publically that Hajer Mansoor’s charges and conviction are not related to the activities of Mr Al Wadaei and has given details on charges. We continue to monitor this case.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 11/02/2020 13:24:21 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4333 label Biography information for Lord Scriven

1174487

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Bahrain: Political Prisoners
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government whether, in assessing the welfare of political prisoners in Bahrain, they take into consideration the findings of independent experts, in particular (1) the 18 September 2019 report by UN Special Rapporteurs on the systematic denial of specialised medical treatment of 10 political prisoners; (2) the joint statement on 8 October 2019 by Human Rights Watch and the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy, Bahrain: Prisoners Denied Medical Care; and (3) concerns raised by family members of those prisoners.
	tabling member printed	Lord Scriven
	uin	HL947
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 11/02/2020 answer text <p>The British Government takes note of a number of sources of information on Bahrain; including publications and statements from non-governmental organisations. We encourage those with concerns about treatment in detention to report these to the appropriate oversight body.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 11/02/2020 13:23:42 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4333 label Biography information for Lord Scriven

1174486

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Abduljalil al-Singace
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 27 January (HL348) and following the joint statement by Human Rights Watch and the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy on 8 October 2019 that “Bahrain’s authorities are failing to provide adequate medical care to high-profile prisoners”, (1) how many appointments Dr Abduljalil al-Singace has been able to attend without the imposition of shackles, and (2) what action they will take to ensure that he receives the medical care he requires in line with international standards.
	tabling member printed	Lord Scriven
	uin	HL946
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 11/02/2020 answer text <p>As stated in my answer to PQ HL348, we continue to monitor the case of Abduljalil al-Singace and raise his case at senior levels with the Government of Bahrain. The Bahraini Government has been clear in public statements that access to medical care for those in detention is guaranteed by the Constitution of Bahrain.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 11/02/2020 13:23:16 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4333 label Biography information for Lord Scriven

1174485

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Hassan Mushaima
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 27 January (HL347), when political prisoner Hassan Mushaima was last taken for an appointment with a medical specialist for diabetes in Bahrain.
	tabling member printed	Lord Scriven
	uin	HL945
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 11/02/2020 answer text <p>We do not hold that information. As I stated in my answer to PQ HL347, access to medical care for those in detention is guaranteed by the Constitution of Bahrain. We have been given categorical assurance privately and Bahrain have stated publicly that any inmate wishing to see the rehabilitation centre’s doctor is taken to the prison clinic. We welcome the public response from the Government of Bahrain in response to such claims and urge continued transparency.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 11/02/2020 13:22:49 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4333 label Biography information for Lord Scriven

1174481

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Hong Kong: British Nationals Abroad
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what measures they are taking to assist British citizens stranded in Hong Kong as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
	tabling member printed	Lord Pendry
	uin	HL941
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/02/2020 answer text <p>The safety and security of British nationals will always be our top priority. The British Consulate-General in Hong Kong remains in close contact with British nationals in the region to ensure they have the latest information they need. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has not changed the level of its travel advice for Hong Kong in response to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak originating in Wuhan, China, though does now advise against all travel to Hubei province and against all but essential travel to the rest of mainland China (excluding Hong Kong and Macao). We have updated our travel advice for all countries and territories which have recorded a confirmed case of the coronavirus.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/02/2020 14:39:12 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	457 label Biography information for Lord Pendry

1174477

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Saudi Arabia: Foreign Relations
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government whether during his meeting with the Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia on 20 January 2020, the Foreign Secretary raised (1) the alleged involvement of the government of Saudi Arabia in the hacking of Jeff Bezos’ phone; (2) the use of digital spyware and targeted surveillance more broadly; and (3) any ongoing evaluation of claims over the involvement of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the murder of Jamal Khashoggi.
	tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
	uin	HL937
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 11/02/2020 answer text <p>The Foreign Secretary raised a number of bilateral issues during his meeting with HH Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, including on human rights.</p><p>The verdicts in the trial of Jamal Khashoggi’s killers was released on 23 December 2019. The Foreign Secretary released a statement at the time reiterating that Mr Khashoggi’s killing was a terrible crime, and that his family deserve to see justice done. Saudi Arabia must hold all those responsible to account and ensure such an atrocity can never happen again. We have consistently set out our grave concerns - both publicly and privately - and will continue to do so.</p><p>Any allegation of phone hacking is a concern. The alleged hacking of Jeff Bezos’s phone is not a matter for the British Government.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 11/02/2020 13:22:20 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1174476

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Saudi Arabia: Hacking
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the proposal by Agnes Callamard, the UN Special Rapporteur on Summary Executions and Extrajudicial Killings, and David Kaye, the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression, on 22 January for a full investigation into the government of Saudi Arabia’s alleged involvement in the hacking of Jeff Bezos’ phone, what support they are offering to facilitate any such investigation.
	tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
	uin	HL936
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>Whilst any allegation of phone hacking is a concern, the alleged hacking is not a matter for the British Government.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 16:56:12 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1174474

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Yemen: Armed Conflict
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the current situation in Yemen, following the briefing by the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, to an emergency session of the UN Security Council on 28 January, in which he warned that the ongoing military escalation "had to end" and that efforts to support de-escalation and confidence-building in the country were in jeopardy; and what action they are taking to support the peace process in Yemen.
	tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
	uin	HL934
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>We are concerned about recent heavy clashes in the Nehm and Al-Jawf regions and fully support the UN Special Envoy’s statement of 22 January calling on the parties to adhere to their commitments and avoid further escalation. The Minister for the Middle East and North Africa issued a statement condemning the increased fighting and met with the UN Special Envoy on 27 January. The UK requested the emergency session of the UN Security Council on 28 January to discuss with international partners how to respond to this development. We are engaging with the parties to appeal for calm. We urge all sides to refrain from destabilising military activity, return to de-escalation efforts, and work with the UN Special Envoy towards a political solution.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 16:55:56 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1174473

	registered interest
	date	29/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Israel: Palestinians
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government when they first had the opportunity to read the President of the USA's proposal Peace To Prosperity: A Vision To Improve The Lives Of The Palestinian And Israeli People, published on 28 January; and what assessment they have made of the political framework proposals contained therein.
	tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
	uin	HL933
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 12/02/2020 answer text <p>The US Administration shared details of their proposals with us in advance. However, this is an American plan. We were not involved in its formulation. The US are aware of our position on the Middle East Peace Process. This is clearly a serious proposal, reflecting extensive time and effort. But only Israeli and Palestinian leaders can determine whether these proposals can meet the needs and aspirations of the people they represent. We encourage them to give these plans genuine and fair consideration, and explore whether they might prove a first step on the road back to negotiations.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 12/02/2020 17:40:15 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1174092

	registered interest
	date	28/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Cameroon: Peace Negotiations
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to (1) President Biya, and (2) the government of Cameroon, about that government's participation in the talks on the future of Cameroon proposed by the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue.
	tabling member printed	Lord Judd
	uin	HL863
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/02/2020 answer text <p>During a visit to Cameroon in September 2019 the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s Permanent Under-Secretary urged the Government of Cameroon to undertake a national dialogue that was comprehensive and inclusive, and could deliver a lasting peace in the Anglophone regions. At a UN Security Council briefing session on 6 December 2019, the UK welcomed the National Dialogue called by the government, bringing parties together in early October. It is imperative that the Government of Cameroon continues to engage in inclusive discussions and helps deliver all the recommendations made from October’s dialogue.</p><p>We welcome the Swiss Government and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue mediation efforts between parties in Cameroon. We urge the Government of Cameroon to remain engaged in this process. The British High Commissioner to Cameroon regularly engages in high-level discussions with the Government of Cameroon on the Anglophone crisis, including the mediation process led by the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue. The UK stands ready to support all credible peacebuilding initiatives.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/02/2020 15:03:39 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	1660 label Biography information for Lord Judd

1174081

	registered interest
	date	28/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Egypt: Detainees
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what reply they received from the government of Egypt when the British Ambassador in Cairo raised concerns about the imprisonment of Essam and Gehad el Haddad.
	tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
	uin	HL852
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>​Our Ambassador to Cairo raised concerns over the cases of Dr Essam El Haddad and his son Gehad El Haddad with the Egyptian Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights in July 2019. He responded that he would convey these to the relevant authorities.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 16:51:46 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1174062

	registered interest
	date	28/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Leah Sharibu
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, following the abduction of Leah Sharibu, what assessment they have made of reports of her enslavement, forced conversion and pregnancy; what actions they have taken to secure her release; and what response they received from the government of Nigeria when they raised her situation with them.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL833
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 11/02/2020 answer text <p>​The UK has made repeated calls for the release of all those abducted by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa (ISWA), including Leah Sharibu. We are appalled by and condemn her reported enslavement, forced conversion and pregnancy. In 2018, we offered expertise to help the Nigerian Government in their search for Leah and the other schoolgirls abducted from Dapchi, Borno State. We continue to use public messaging and our engagement with the Government of Nigeria to help secure the release of Leah and all those abducted by the insurgent groups. The Government of Nigeria have assured us that they are making all efforts to secure her return.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 11/02/2020 13:25:11 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1174059

	registered interest
	date	28/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Hong Kong: Embassies
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, following reports of the arrest of a 15 year old girl outside the British consulate in Hong Kong, what plans they have to publish the legal advice which informed the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's conclusion that the arrest occurred on land which has no special status under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL830
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>As a matter of course, the Government does not publish its legal advice.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 13:08:46 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1175320

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Israel: Palestinians
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel about reports of drug experimentation being conducted on Palestinian prisoners and schoolchildren in Palestine.
	tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
	uin	HL821
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 11/02/2020 answer text <p>None. We emphasise the importance of treating prisoners and detainees humanely and in accordance with international law.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 11/02/2020 16:59:32 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1175319

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Israel: Bedouin
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what representations they are making to the government of Israel about the stopping of school buses serving villages in the southern Negev region by that government.
	tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
	uin	HL820
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>We are following the issue of unresolved Bedouin land claims, unrecognised Bedouin villages in the Negev and lack of or interruption to basic services. We continue to encourage the Israeli authorities and Bedouin communities to engage in dialogue to find satisfactory solutions.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 13:08:35 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1175318

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	West Bank: Schools
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what representations they plan to make to the government of Israel about reports of a raid on a school in Deir Nizam on 19 January.
	tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
	uin	HL819
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>While we have not raised this case specifically, we regularly raise our concerns with the Israeli authorities about Israel's use of force in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. We have stressed the importance of the Israeli security forces providing appropriate protection to the Palestinian civilian population, in particular the need to protect children.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 13:07:51 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1175317

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Khalida Jarrar
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel about the treatment of Khalida Jarrar during her recent detention by that government.
	tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
	uin	HL818
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>While we have not made any representations to the Government of Israel on this specific case, we have concerns about mistreatment of Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons, and about Israel’s respect of its obligations as an occupying power, under applicable international law. Officials from our Embassy in Tel Aviv have raised the treatment of Palestinians in Israeli prisons with the Israeli authorities, most recently on 16 December 2019. We emphasise the importance of treating prisoners and detainees humanely and in accordance with international law.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 15:54:13 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1175316

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Gaza: Floods
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the damage caused to (1) crops, and (2) livestock, in Gaza following the release of water from rainwater collection dams by the government of Israel.
	tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
	uin	HL817
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>While we have not made an assessment of this situation, we remain concerned about the quality and quantity of water available to residents of Gaza and the West Bank. The fair and effective distribution of shared water resources across the Middle East is of great concern to us. These resources are limited and therefore require the effective co-operation of all parties to manage them in such a manner that ensures there will be enough for all. The UK continues to encourage Israel to lift its restrictions and take appropriate steps in order to ease the suffering of ordinary Palestinians.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 17:52:10 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1175315

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Gaza: Armed Conflict
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of (1) the number of civilian deaths, and (2) the amount of damage to civilian structures, in Gaza caused by bombing by the Israel Defence Force in 2020 to date.
	tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
	uin	HL816
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>We are very concerned at the numbers of Palestinians killed by Israel Defense Forces in the West Bank and Gaza. We have raised the issue with the Israeli authorities, encouraging them to carry out transparent investigations into whether the use of live fire had been appropriate. We have also stressed the importance of the Israeli security forces providing appropriate protection to the Palestinian civilian population. Any attacks targeted against civilians are unlawful and unjustifiable. While Israel has a legitimate right to self-defence, it is vital that all its actions are proportionate, in line with International Humanitarian Law, and are calibrated to avoid civilian casualties.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 13:07:33 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1149788

	registered interest
	date	15/10/2019
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Bulgaria: Football
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Bulgaria about the behaviour of spectators present at the Bulgaria vs England football match on 14 October.
	tabling member printed	Lord Birt
	uin	HL80
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 22/10/2019 answer text <p>The United Kingdom strongly condemns the racist conduct of some spectators present at the Bulgaria vs England football match on 14 October, as does the Bulgarian Government. The United Kingdom welcomes the swift action by Bulgarian Government, and our Ambassador to Bulgaria has spoken with senior Bulgarian Government figures on this issue.</p><p>The United Kingdom remains committed, both domestically and internationally, to eliminating any form of racism, including in the sports industry.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 22/10/2019 11:25:51 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	2533 label Biography information for Lord Birt

1175349

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Hong Kong: Embassies
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government, following reports of the arrest of a 15 year old girl outside the British consulate in Hong Kong, what steps they have taken to ensure that she was not subjected to ill-treatment at the hands of the Hong Kong Police Force.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL781
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>The UK has repeatedly made clear that we support the right to peaceful and lawful protest. As in all overseas missions, we maintain regular contact with the police about the security of our buildings and staff. As I stated on 15 January, any arrests and judicial processes should be conducted in a fair and transparent manner. We have made clear that we expect the Hong Kong authorities abide by international humanitarian laws and practices. ​</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 15:55:43 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1175347

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Nigeria: Violence
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports of (1) executions of Christians in Plateau State in Nigeria; and (2) targeted killings and kidnappings by Boko Haram and Fulani extremists; whether they discussed these issues with President Muhammadu Buhari at the UK–Africa Investment Summit; and what response they received.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL780
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/02/2020 answer text <p>We are appalled by and condemn the escalating levels of violence, including executions, instigated by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) in Northern Nigeria. The targeting of Christians, including those from Plateau State, has tragically increased in recent months, although the indiscriminate nature of the groups’ attacks continues to have a devastating effect on all communities. The UK is providing a comprehensive package of support to help tackle the crisis in the North East, including £300 million of humanitarian support over five years (2018-2022).</p><p>We welcome President Buhari’s condemnation of recent attacks in Plateau State. The British High Commission engages closely with the federal government, state government, international partners and the National Economic Council to help uphold the Nigerian Constitutional right to freedom of religion, address the drivers of intercommunal violence and push for solutions that meet the needs of all communities affected. To this end, the British High Commissioner visited Plateau State in December 2019 and met with the Governor, Christian and Muslim faith leaders, as well as Fulani communities. They all reported the tragic impact of the violence and discussed the complex root causes. The Prime Minister raised concerns about increasing levels of violence across Nigeria and discussed UK support with President Buhari at the UK-Africa Investment Summit on 20 January.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/02/2020 14:56:42 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1175346

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Hong Kong: Politics and Government
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government, further to their Six-monthly Report on Hong Kong: January to June 2017, published on 14 September 2017, whether their position remains that "the best way to secure the long-term future of 'One Country, Two Systems' is through a transition to universal suffrage which meets the aspirations of the people of Hong Kong, within the parameters of Basic Law."
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL779
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 10/02/2020 answer text <p>The UK remains fully committed to upholding Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy and rights and freedoms underpinned by the legally binding Joint Declaration of 1984 and the “One Country, Two Systems” framework set out in the Hong Kong Basic Law. The statement in question from the Six-monthly report on Hong Kong published in September 2017 relating to universal suffrage remains the position of Her Majesty's Government.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 10/02/2020 11:33:09 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1173329

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Madagascar: Mining
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of recent reports of child labour in mica mines in Madagascar; and what steps they are taking to end such practices.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL778
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/02/2020 answer text <p>​The UK is concerned about reports of the use of child labour in the mining industry in Madagascar. We are committed to eradicating all forms of modern slavery. Under the Modern Slavery Act, all large businesses in the UK with a turnover of £36 million or more are required to publish an annual transparency statement detailing the steps they have taken to prevent modern slavery from occurring in their business and supply chains. This enables consumers, investors and campaigners alike to hold businesses to account. The UK regularly raises human rights concerns with the Government of Madagascar. At the 34th Session of the Universal Periodic Review in November 2019, the UK recommended Madagascar strengthen its existing legislation to ensure that all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking are criminalised in line with international conventions and standards; this includes the exploitation of children.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/02/2020 14:53:15 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1175329

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Rwanda: Children
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports by Human Rights Watch of homeless children subjected to violence and other abuse in a transit centre in Kigali; what discussions they have had with the government of Rwanda about its obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; and what discussions they have had about these reports with the governments of other Commonwealth countries in advance of the forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Rwanda.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL777
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/02/2020 answer text <p>​We are concerned by the Human Rights Watch report on the Gikondo transit centre. We urge the Government of Rwanda to abide by its international human rights obligations including the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Rwanda ratified in 1991. The Prime Minister raised human rights and the importance of adhering to Commonwealth values when he met President Kagame during the UK-Africa Investment Summit on 20 January. The British High Commission in Kigali regularly raises human rights concerns with the Government of Rwanda. The next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting presents a valuable opportunity to ensure the Commonwealth is working towards a fairer future for all our citizens.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/02/2020 14:53:52 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1175305

	registered interest
	date	27/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Syria: Armed Conflict
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of (1) reports by Doctors Under Fire that more than 100 women and children have been killed in Russian and Syrian airstrikes in Idlib since 18 January; and (2) Doctors Under Fire's call for the imposition of a no-fly zone to deter helicopters using barrel bombs.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL776
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 04/02/2020 answer text <p>We are deeply concerned about the killing of civilians, including women and children, in Idlib, north-west Syria, during the ongoing offensive by the Syrian regime and Russia. We are using our position in the UN Security Council to call on Russia and the regime to respect previously agreed ceasefires in Idlib and their obligations under international humanitarian law. We are also continuing assistance to the White Helmets. We do not consider imposing a no fly-zone over Idlib to be a realistic option.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 04/02/2020 14:06:53 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1175279

	registered interest
	date	23/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Bahrain: Trials
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 22 January (HL340), what assessment they have made of whether the trial of Mohammed Ramadhan and Hussain Moosa in Bahrain (1) was fair, and (2) met international standards.
	tabling member printed	Lord Scriven
	uin	HL771
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/02/2020 answer text <p>The UK continues to encourage the Government of Bahrain to follow due process in all cases and meet its international and domestic human rights commitments.</p><p>The right to a fair trial is enshrined in the constitution of Bahrain. Bahrain stated publically both the original conviction in 2014 and any rejection of appeals, such as the verdict announced on January 8 2020, must be agreed unanimously by the judges, and in accordance with international law and human rights standards including the United Nations Safeguards. These include a requirement for the court to base its decision on receipt of clear and convincing evidence which leaves “no room for an alternative explanation of the facts”.</p><p>British Embassy officials were in attendance of the retrial. The case, which is ongoing, has not yet reached a final verdict as it will now be considered in the Court of Cassation. We continue to monitor the case.</p><p>The Minister for the Middle East and North Africa recently publicly stated that, we are deeply concerned that the death penalty has been issued to Mohammed Ramadhan and Hussain Moosa.</p><p>The Government of Bahrain is fully aware that the UK is firmly opposed to the death penalty, in all circumstances.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/02/2020 14:31:08 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4333 label Biography information for Lord Scriven

1149785

	registered interest
	date	15/10/2019
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Middle East: Genocide
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what progress they are making in establishing international judicial mechanisms to bring those responsible for genocide in Syria and Iraq to justice.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL77
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 29/10/2019 answer text <p>The UK is committed to promoting justice for the victims of any war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity alleged to have taken place in Syria and Iraq, including by members of Daesh. We are providing diplomatic and financial support to the UN Impartial Independent Investigative Mechanism in Syria and the UN Investigative Team (having contributed over £9 million since 2012 to UN accountability mechanisms and NGOs) to promote accountability, gather evidence and prepare legal cases.</p><p> </p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 29/10/2019 15:11:54 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1149784

	registered interest
	date	15/10/2019
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Syria: Genocide
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what information they have received about the plight of religious or political minorities at risk from genocidaires in north-east Syria; and what action they are taking in accordance with the requirements of the Convention on the Prevention of Genocide to protect them and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL76
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 29/10/2019 answer text <p>​We follow closely the human rights situation in Syria, including north-east Syria. We are concerned at reported violations of international humanitarian law in the context of the Turkish military intervention and have called on all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law. As a party to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, we will continue to work closely with international partners in pursuit of justice for the victims of Daesh in Syria and Iraq. The British Government supports the UN mechanisms to monitor and gather evidence of any war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity committed in Syria, namely the UN Commission of Inquiry for Syria and the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism for Syria.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 29/10/2019 15:11:31 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1228296

	registered interest
	date	29/07/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Integrated Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy Review
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what progress they have made with the Integrated Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy Review; with whom they have consulted about that Review; and when they estimate that Review to be completed.
	tabling member printed	Lord Truscott
	uin	HL7566
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/08/2020 answer text <p>The Government paused its Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy in April due to the pressing need to focus on COVID-19. We have formally recommenced the Review, building on the work done since the Review was first launched in February.</p><p>Our aim continues to be for an ambitious and bold Integrated Review that is guided by the UK's foreign policy and national security objectives.</p><p>We will be engaging with Parliament, the Devolved Administrations, external experts and wider stakeholders with an interest in our nation's security and prosperity. This includes our allies and partners, building on our ongoing dialogue on COVID-19 response and recovery.</p><p>The Government will conduct targeted engagement that will bring crucial external voices and expertise to bear in defining our ambition for the UK's role in the world and setting the country on the best possible trajectory for the future.</p><p>The Integrated Review will remain closely aligned with the Comprehensive Spending Review, to ensure that departments are equipped with the resources they need to enact the Integrated Review's conclusions. The Comprehensive Spending Review will be published in the autumn.</p> answering member printed Baroness Sugg question first answered 06/08/2020 11:51:01 answering member 4584 label Biography information for Baroness Sugg
	tabling member	3682 label Biography information for Lord Truscott

1228256

	registered interest
	date	29/07/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Rania Elias and Suhail Khoury
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel about the detention of Rania Elias and Suhail Khoury; and what plans they have to raise those detentions with international partners.
	tabling member printed	The Earl of Sandwich
	uin	HL7555
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/08/2020 answer text <p>Our Consul General in Jerusalem has publicly expressed his concern. We continue to call on the Israeli authorities to comply with their obligations under international law and either charge or release detainees. We also continue to support the Palestinian cultural presence and identity in East Jerusalem, as well as Palestinian physical presence there.</p> answering member printed Baroness Sugg question first answered 06/08/2020 11:46:14 answering member 4584 label Biography information for Baroness Sugg
	tabling member	2109 label Biography information for The Earl of Sandwich

1228254

	registered interest
	date	29/07/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	South Sudan: Violence
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent assessment they have made of intercommunal violence in South Sudan.
	tabling member printed	The Earl of Sandwich
	uin	HL7553
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/08/2020 answer text <p>There has been a recent rise in severe violence in several states in South Sudan resulting in killings, displacement and disruption to livelihoods and humanitarian access. Severe violence is tipping South Sudan into further humanitarian crisis with 6.5 million people already facing acute food insecurity, many in areas recently devastated by flooding and facing the possibility of new locust swarms. In Jonglei alone, 157,000 people have been displaced since February this year and an estimated 87,000 people are in need of urgent assistance. The violence in Jonglei and other parts of South Sudan underlines that, despite the 2018 peace agreement and a reduction in overall political conflict, many South Sudanese continue to live with terrible violence. South Sudan's best chance of a more stable and prosperous future remains the full implementation of the peace agreement.</p><p>The creation of a peace committee by Presidential decree is a welcome step, but it and the Government of South Sudan need to act urgently to stop violence, facilitate humanitarian access and ensure ceasefire monitors are enabled to conduct accurate and timely investigations. Our Ambassador and other officials continue to meet the most senior representatives of the Government of South Sudan to urge action. The UK will continue to promote efforts to halt the violence, address the root causes of conflict and build lasting peace.</p> answering member printed Baroness Sugg question first answered 06/08/2020 15:39:15 answering member 4584 label Biography information for Baroness Sugg
	tabling member	2109 label Biography information for The Earl of Sandwich

1228252

	registered interest
	date	29/07/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	South Sudan: Press Freedom
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent assessment they have made of (1) the freedom of the press in South Sudan, and (2) the case of Peter Biar Ajak.
	tabling member printed	The Earl of Sandwich
	uin	HL7551
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/08/2020 answer text <p>Freedom of expression has an essential role to play in the establishment of peace and stability in South Sudan. We are deeply concerned at any closing of political space and restrictions on freedom of expression in the country, both for activists and for local and international journalists. This is incompatible with the Government of South Sudan's expressed desire to see a successful resolution to the nation's crises. We continue to lobby the Government of South Sudan to ensure that journalists, human rights activists and civil society are free to operate without fear of retribution. Through our Media Freedom Campaign we are providing support to journalists inside the country including continued funding for local media associations</p><p>The UK lobbied the Government of South Sudan on political detainees including during Peter Biar's imprisonment in 2018-19. This included calling for due process, access to legal representation and for his release from detention as part of the 2018 peace agreement. We welcomed his eventual release alongside other prisoners in January and are aware of his recent arrival in the US. Our officials remain in contact with him.</p> answering member printed Baroness Sugg question first answered 06/08/2020 15:40:25 answering member 4584 label Biography information for Baroness Sugg
	tabling member	2109 label Biography information for The Earl of Sandwich

1175291

	registered interest
	date	23/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Middle East and North Africa: Religious Freedom
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to negotiate a United Nations Security Council Resolution calling on all governments in the Middle East and North Africa region to (1) ensure the protection and security of Christians, and other faith minorities, (2) facilitate the establishment of security and protection arrangements for Christians, and other faith minorities, within the legal and governance structures, and (3) permit UN observers to monitor the protection and security arrangements for Christians and other faith minorities, in each of those countries.
	tabling member printed	The Lord Bishop of Leeds
	uin	HL750
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 04/02/2020 answer text <p>​We are liaising with the UK mission to the UN in New York on how best to implement this recommendation. We are keen to work with all governments in the Middle East and North Africa region and support them to protect Christians and all religious minorities from persecution. The Government remains committed to implementing all the recommendations of the Bishop of Truro's Review in full and in a way that will bring real improvements to the lives of those persecuted because of their faith or belief.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 04/02/2020 16:13:38 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4349 label Biography information for The Lord Bishop of Leeds

1149783

	registered interest
	date	15/10/2019
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Syria: Military Intervention
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will publish the names of combatants fighting alongside Turkish forces in north-east Syria who are known to have affiliations with ISIS or other terrorist organisations.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL75
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 29/10/2019 answer text <p>The British Government does not hold this information.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 29/10/2019 12:03:32 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1228222

	registered interest
	date	29/07/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Nigeria: Violence
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the government of Nigeria about the prosecution of those responsible for (1) killings of, and (2) violent attacks against, Christians in Nigeria; how many Fulani people have been prosecuted for any such attacks; and what steps they are taking, through UK aid programmes, to assist with (a) upholding the rule of law, (b) the protection of minorities, and (c) supporting affected communities in Nigeria.
	tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
	uin	HL7499
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/08/2020 answer text <p>The UK Government condemns all killings and incidents of violence against innocent Nigerian civilians, including terrorist attacks in North East Nigeria and incidents of intercommunal violence in the Middle-Belt. These attacks have had devastating effects on communities of all faiths, including Christian communities. We continue to encourage the Government of Nigeria to take action to bring the perpetrators of these attacks to justice. Prosecutions of those responsible, who come from a range of ethnic and religious backgrounds, is primarily a matter for the Nigerian State.</p><p>In the North East of Nigeria, the UK is supporting efforts to tackle the terrorist threat and providing a comprehensive package of security, stabilisation and humanitarian assistance to support communities affected by the conflict. In the Middle Belt, the British High Commissioner and her team are increasing their diplomatic engagement with states affected by intercommunal violence. The UK Government is also providing technical support to the Nigerian Government for the development of the National Livestock Transformation Plan. The plan aims to promote cattle-rearing in one place, rather than the traditional nomadic practice, to limit competition over land and resources leading to violence.</p><p>The Prime Minister discussed insecurity in Nigeria with President Buhari at the UK Africa Investment Summit in January. More recently, the Minister for Africa discussed intercommunal violence in Nigeria with President Buhari's Chief of Staff, on 29 June. We have made clear to the Nigerian authorities, at the highest levels, the importance of protecting civilians, including ethnic and religious minorities, human rights and upholding the rule of law.</p> answering member printed Baroness Sugg question first answered 06/08/2020 15:41:21 answering member 4584 label Biography information for Baroness Sugg
	tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1228175

	registered interest
	date	28/07/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Mubarak Bala
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Nigeria about (1) the detention of Mubarak Bala, and (2) reports that the detention has included no contact with the detainee's (a) family, or (b) legal representatives.
	tabling member printed	Baroness Whitaker
	uin	HL7495
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/08/2020 answer text <p>The UK Government is monitoring Mr Bala's case closely. We continue to stress to the Government of Nigeria the importance of a transparent investigation that respects Mr Bala's human rights, the rule of law, and the Nigerian constitutional right to freedom of religion or belief. Our High Commission in Abuja discussed the case with the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the police after Mr Bala's arrest. James Duddridge (Minister for Africa) raised Mr Bala's case directly with the Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs on 21 May.</p><p>We welcome the recent magistrate court order instructing the police to allow Mr Bala access to legal representation. We call on the relevant authorities to ensure that the order is followed, and that Mr Bala's family are permitted visiting rights in line with local law and current Covid-19 lockdown restrictions. Defending freedom of religion or belief for all remains a UK Government policy priority and we will continue to use our voice internationally to protect this human right.</p> answering member printed Baroness Sugg question first answered 06/08/2020 15:37:49 answering member 4584 label Biography information for Baroness Sugg
	tabling member	2510 label Biography information for Baroness Whitaker

1175290

	registered interest
	date	23/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what (1) human, and (2) financial, resources have been made available to support the Office of the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief.
	tabling member printed	The Lord Bishop of Leeds
	uin	HL749
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/02/2020 answer text <p>​Promoting Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB) globally is a key priority of this Government. The office of the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief is supported by a Chief of Staff, and we are recruiting an Assistant Private Secretary. In addition, we also have a FoRB team whose work includes providing policy advice and support to the Special Envoy and other Ministers. For this financial year, we have agreed the Special Envoy’s office will receive £73,453 to cover travel and administration costs. Future funding will be decided at a later stage.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/02/2020 14:22:54 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4349 label Biography information for The Lord Bishop of Leeds

1228137

	registered interest
	date	28/07/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Israel: Coronavirus
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel about the Supreme Court of Israel's ruling that prisoners in Gilboa prison have no right to social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
	tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
	uin	HL7480
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/08/2020 answer text <p>We remain concerned by the impact that COVID-19 could have on prisoners and detainees. The British Embassy in Tel Aviv have a regular dialogue with Israel on legal issues relating to the occupation, including the treatment of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons. This includes the increased risk due to lack of hygiene, proper ventilation, population density and issues of due process. We continue to call for steps to be taken that will reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading in prisons whilst simultaneously respecting fundamental human rights.</p> answering member printed Baroness Sugg question first answered 06/08/2020 11:45:33 answering member 4584 label Biography information for Baroness Sugg
	tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1175289

	registered interest
	date	23/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Religious Freedom
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what consideration they have given to hosting a ministerial conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief in 2020 or 2021.
	tabling member printed	The Lord Bishop of Leeds
	uin	HL748
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/02/2020 answer text <p>Promoting Freedom of Religion or Belief is a longstanding human rights priority for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). The FCO has already agreed to host in 2020 conferences on Preventing Sexual Violence and COP26 then co-host a conference on the Equal Rights Coalition on LGBT rights. We will announce a decision on whether the UK will host a ministerial level conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief shortly.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 06/02/2020 17:38:52 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4349 label Biography information for The Lord Bishop of Leeds

1228136

	registered interest
	date	28/07/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	Israeli Settlements
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel about reports of the construction of (1) a new settlement near Asira a-Shamaliya on land owned by Palestinians, and (2) earthworks by Israeli armed forces preventing Palestinians from reaching their farmland.
	tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
	uin	HL7479
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/08/2020 answer text <p>We consistently call for an immediate end to all actions that undermine the viability of the two-state solution, including settlement expansion and restrictions on freedom of movement within the West Bank, including to and from East Jerusalem. The UK's position on settlements is clear. They are illegal under international law, present an obstacle to peace, and threaten they physical viability of a two-state solution. We urge Israel to halt settlement expansion immediately. We continue to stress to the Israeli authorities the damage that their restrictions on movement, access and trade are doing to the living standards of ordinary Palestinians. We are encouraging both sides to maintain calm and avoid taking actions which make peace more difficult to achieve.</p> answering member printed Baroness Sugg question first answered 06/08/2020 11:47:46 answering member 4584 label Biography information for Baroness Sugg
	tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1175288

	registered interest
	date	23/01/2020
	answering body	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept id	16
	answering dept short name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	answering dept sort name	Foreign and Commonwealth Office
	hansard heading	International Religious Freedom Alliance
	house id	2
	legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
	question text	Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the government of the United States about joining its International Religious Freedom Alliance; what assessment they have made of that Alliance; and what consultation they have undertaken with civil society and other interested parties about the effects of joining that Alliance.
	tabling member printed	The Lord Bishop of Leeds
	uin	HL747
	answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 06/02/2020 answer text <p>The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has held discussions with the US and other countries about joining the Alliance. We will be announcing our decision on our membership shortly.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 06/02/2020 17:36:45 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
	tabling member	4349 label Biography information for The Lord Bishop of Leeds