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<p>The Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary raised human rights during the Crown Prince's
visit. We raise our concerns at all levels and at all appropriate opportunities, including
through our Ambassador, Embassy staff and through the EU. The UK has raised the issues
of the sentences imposed on human rights defenders in Saudi Arabia and the use of
the Special Criminal Court (SCC) to prosecute activists. HMA Riyadh raised this issue
in January, February and March of this year with the Saudi Authorities. Representatives
of our Embassy in Riyadh attend all trials of activists at the SCC that they are permitted
to by the authorities.</p><p>Our starting point for engagement on human rights with
all countries is based on what is practical, realistic and achievable, and we will
always be ready to speak out as a matter of principle. Ministers frequently discuss
human rights and raise concerns with the Saudi Arabian government.</p>
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