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1152015

registered interest
date	23/10/2019
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	Gaza: Freezing of Assets
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made, and intend to make, to the Palestinian Authority, following reports that it has frozen bank accounts belonging to Palestinian non-governmental organisations in the Gaza Strip.
tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
uin	HL359
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​Her Majesty’s Consul-General to Jerusalem raised this issue with the Palestinian Authority on 5 November. Our Consulate-General in Jerusalem frequently urges the Palestinian authorities to take steps within its grasp to improve the conditions in Gaza. The UK also continues to encourage the reconciliation process in which the Palestinian Authority resumes control of Gaza and restores effective and accountable governance.</p><p>​</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:40:01 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1156596

registered interest
date	28/10/2019
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	Israeli Settlements: Palestinians
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 level of violence by Israeli settlers against (1) Palestinians, their farmland and olive groves, and (2) human rights workers supporting Palestinians, in the West Bank.
tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
uin	HL476
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​We are troubled by the increase in settler violence. Many recent incidents – including assaults on Palestinian farmers, the setting fire to olive trees and stealing of produce – have coincided with the Palestinian olive harvest, which began earlier this month. We condemn any incidence of violence by settlers against Palestinians. Under international law, Israel, as the occupying power, has an obligation to take all measures in its power to protect the Palestinian population from acts of violence. Officials from our Embassy in Tel Aviv raised the increase in settler violence with the Israeli authorities on 30 October. We have stressed the importance of the Israel security forces providing appropriate protection to the Palestinian civilian population. We welcome the efforts of Israeli authorities to address settler violence, and urge them to thoroughly investigate every instance and bring those responsible to justice. We are also clear that no human rights or aid workers should be at risk of violence and that they must have the protection they need from the responsible authorities to allow them to do their jobs in safety.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:14:31 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1156597

registered interest
date	28/10/2019
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	Israel: Sanctions and UN Resolutions
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they take to ensure that UN resolutions and sanctions against the government of Israel are enforced.
tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
uin	HL477
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​We believe peace will only come through negotiations between the parties, but international action has a role in facilitating progress. We have long supported balanced UN resolutions, including United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334 that addressed incitement and settlements. But resolutions that politicise neutral UN bodies or risk hardening positions on both sides, do little to advance peace or mutual understanding. We believe that imposing sanctions on Israel or supporting anti-Israeli boycotts would not support our efforts to progress the peace process and achieve a negotiated solution.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:39:08 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1156598

registered interest
date	28/10/2019
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	Israeli Settlements: Trade
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 call by the UN independent expert on human rights in the Palestinian territories for an international ban on all products made in Israeli settlements as a step to potentially end Israel’s occupation of the West Bank; and what steps they intend to take in response to that call.
tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
uin	HL478
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​While it has long been our position that Israeli settlement activity is illegal, we believe that imposing sanctions on Israel or supporting anti-Israeli boycotts would not support our efforts to progress the peace process and achieve a negotiated solution. We understand the concerns of people who do not wish to purchase goods exported from Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs). It was in order to enable consumers to make a more fully informed decision concerning the products they buy that, in December 2009, the UK introduced voluntary guidelines to enable produce from Israeli settlements in the OPTs to be specifically labelled as such. Products from Israeli settlements do not receive preferential tariff treatment under the EU-Israel Association Agreement which currently governs our trade with Israel, nor the UK-Israel Trade and Partnership Agreement which will govern our trade after the UK leaves the EU.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:26:55 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1156599

registered interest
date	28/10/2019
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	West Bank: Children
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they intend to take to protect Palestinian children in the West Bank from violence, including the use of live ammunition by the Israeli army.
tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
uin	HL479
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​The Government is very concerned at the high numbers of Palestinians killed by Israel Defense Forces both in the West Bank and Gaza. We have raised the issue with the Israeli authorities, encouraging them to carry out transparent investigations into whether use of live fire had been appropriate. The UK has repeatedly made clear to Israel our longstanding concerns about the manner in which the Israel Defense Forces police non-violent protests and the border areas, including the use of live ammunition. We will continue to do so. We also stress the importance of protecting civilians, especially children and medical personnel. We call on Israel to adhere to the principles of necessity and proportionality when defending its legitimate security interest.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:27:38 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1156600

registered interest
date	28/10/2019
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	Israel: Palestinians
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they are making to the government of Israel about the number of injuries to unarmed Palestinians caused by live ammunition.
tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
uin	HL480
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>We have repeatedly made clear to Israel our longstanding concerns about the way Israel Defense Forces police protests and the border areas, including the use of live ammunition. We call on Israel to adhere to the principles of necessity and proportionality when defending its legitimate security interest.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:28:13 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1156601

registered interest
date	28/10/2019
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	West Bank: Energy Supply
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 impact of the reduction of power supplies to the West Bank and the reported denial by the government of Israel to alternative sources of power on the human rights of those living there; and what representations they intend to make to the government of Israel about increasing power supply to the West Bank.
tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
uin	HL481
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​The British Government is aware of the decision of the Israel Electric Corporation to cut power to parts of the West Bank, citing outstanding payments from Palestinian power distributors. Officials from our Embassy in Tel Aviv raised this issue with the Israeli authorities on 30 October. We continue to urge both sides of the dispute to reach a prompt and pragmatic resolution, ensuring minimum disruption to the lives of ordinary Palestinians. We recognise the need for improvements in infrastructure, employment, energy and water supply to improve living conditions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:28:30 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1167240

registered interest
date	29/10/2019
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	Bosnia and Herzegovina: EU Defence Policy
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what are the objectives of the EU’s Operation Althea in Bosnia and Herzegovina; and what contribution, if any, the UK is making to that operation.
tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
uin	HL508
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​EUFOR Operation Althea in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) is an EU military operation. It operates under a UN Chapter VII mandate and under the Berlin Plus arrangements, is commanded by NATO and has access to NATO assets and capabilities. Its main objective is to support the authorities of BiH to maintain a ‘Safe and Secure Environment’. The United Kingdom has consistently supported its aims and objectives. The United Kingdom shares Operation Althea’s common costs with the other 22 participating nations. We currently contribute a number of staff officers, an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance taskforce and offer an ‘over the horizon’ reserve battalion.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:34:27 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1167269

registered interest
date	29/10/2019
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	al-Aqsa Mosque
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the statement by the government of Israel’s Public Security Minister on 11 October that non-Muslims may soon be allowed to worship inside the al-Aqsa Mosque, what assessment they have made of the impact of any such change on the status of religious sites, in particular the al-Aqsa Mosque; and what representations they intend to make to the government of Israel about that proposal.
tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
uin	HL537
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​The Haram Al-Sharif / Temple Mount and Jerusalem hold particular significance for many groups around the globe, especially the three Abrahamic faiths of Christianity, Islam and Judaism. The UK is committed to working with all parties to maintain calm, avoid provocation and uphold the status quo to ensure the safety and the security of the Al Haram Al Sharif / Temple Mount and all who worship there.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:45:32 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1167270

registered interest
date	29/10/2019
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	Israeli Settlements: Palestinians
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 number of incursions by Israeli settlers, supported by the Israeli army, into Palestinian religious and archaeological sites in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, including the al-Aqsa Mosque.
tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
uin	HL538
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​We condemn any incidence of violence by settlers against Palestinians. We welcome the efforts of Israeli authorities to address settler violence, and urge them to thoroughly investigate every instance and bring those responsible to justice. We have also stressed the importance of the Israel security forces providing appropriate protection to the Palestinian civilian population. In our meetings with the Israeli authorities we regularly raise the need to respect the status quo of the holy sites in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. Officials from our Embassy in Tel Aviv raised this issue with the Israeli authorities on 16 October.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:29:18 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1167271

registered interest
date	29/10/2019
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	Israel: Palestinians
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they are making to the government of Israel about reports of an elderly mosque imam being seriously injured after being hit by seven bullets in Ramla city on 12 October.
tabling member printed	Baroness Tonge
uin	HL539
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​The UK Government strongly condemns all forms of violence and incitement to violence. The perpetual cycle of violence does not serve anyone's interests, and must end.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:29:59 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	200 label Biography information for Baroness Tonge

1167532

registered interest
date	30/10/2019
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	Pakistan: Ahmadiyya
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports of an attack by authorities in Punjab which destroyed part of the Ahmadiyya Muslim mosque in Hasilpur; and what representations they have made to the government of Pakistan to end discrimination and persecution of Ahmadis.
tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
uin	HL540
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​We are concerned about the reports of the damage to the Ahmadiyya Muslim mosque in Hasilpur, Punjab, Pakistan.</p><p>We regularly raise our concerns about reports of discrimination against religious minorities in Pakistan, including the Ahmadis, with the Pakistani Government at a senior level. The previous Foreign Secretary discussed the treatment of minority religious communities with Foreign Minister Qureshi during his visit to the UK in June. The UK strongly condemns the persecution of all minorities, including the targeting of innocent people based on their beliefs. The British Government continues to urge Pakistan to honour its human rights obligations, including those related to religious minorities, and to uphold the rule of law.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:30:13 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1167541

registered interest
date	30/10/2019
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	Lebanon: Politics and Government
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 political situation in Lebanon, following the recent protests in that country.
tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
uin	HL549
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>The Minister for the Middle East and North Africa met the Lebanese Ambassador to the UK on October 24 to discuss recent developments. Lebanon is at a crossroads. Whatever the political solution, Lebanon needs a government that can urgently deliver vital reforms necessary to create a better country for all. Violence or intimidation of peaceful protests from any group only undermines Lebanon's unity and stability. The UK will continue to support a secure, stable, sovereign and prosperous Lebanon.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:43:18 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1167542

registered interest
date	30/10/2019
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	Iraq: Politics and Government
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what action they are taking to support the government of Iraq in order to end violence in that country.
tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
uin	HL550
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​We are deeply concerned about the continued violence in Iraq. We continue to urge the Iraqi security forces to show restraint and call for the protests to be peaceful. The Foreign Secretary spoke to Iraqi Prime Minister Abdul Mehdi on 9 October to express UK concerns about the disproportionate security response and push for the Government to take action to respond to protesters' legitimate concerns. I spoke to Foreign Minister Al-Hakim on 10 October to underline these points. Our Ambassador in Baghdad has been in close contact with senior Iraqis including the Iraqi President and Prime Minister. We are also working with international partners and the UN to encourage and support the Government of Iraq to take quick and effective action on tackling corruption, creating jobs and improving services, in line with the protestors' legitimate demands.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:43:42 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1167543

registered interest
date	30/10/2019
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	Tunisia: Foreign Relations
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to strengthen bilateral relations with Tunisia and to support that country's ongoing political and economic changes; and what meetings ministers have held with President Kais Saied.
tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
uin	HL551
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​The British Government congratulates President Kais Saied on his inauguration on 24 October. We remain in close touch with the Tunisian authorities and look forward to working with the new Government when it is formed. While British Ministers have not yet met President Saied, UK officials attended his inauguration. The Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, Dr Murrison, held comprehensive talks with the then Tunisian Secretary of State to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sabri Bachtobji, at the UK-Tunisia Bilateral Forum in London on 12 September. Mr Bachtobji was appointed Acting Foreign Minister on 29 October. The signing of the UK-Tunisia Association Agreement on 4 October, and the UK-Tunisia Investment Forum on 22 October are other recent highlights of our growing bilateral co-operation and, along with UK programming worth over £12 million in 2019-2020, testament to our continuing support for Tunisia’s political and economic development.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 16:43:54 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1167545

registered interest
date	30/10/2019
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	Sri Lanka: Human Rights
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Freedom of Information request made by Lord Naseby on 6 November 2014 and the resolution adopted by the UN Human Rights Council on 1 October 2015 Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka, whether they will now publish the full information contained within the despatches written by Lieutenant Colonel Anton Gash to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office during the period January to May 2009; and if so, when.
tabling member printed	Lord Naseby
uin	HL553
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>The Foreign and Commonwealth Office received a Freedom of Information request made by you on 6 November 2014 and responded in line with our obligations under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. We have no plans to publish further information related to this at this time.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:27:07 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	1251 label Biography information for Lord Naseby

1167734

registered interest
date	31/10/2019
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	Europe: Refugees
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government when they last had discussions with UNICEF and Médecins Sans Frontières about (1) the refugees on the Greek Islands, (2) rescues from the Mediterranean, including children aged 5 to 17, and (3) unaccompanied minors who have reached France.
tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
uin	HL574
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>We are in regular dialogue with relevant NGOs on a range of migration issues. We have routine discussions of Search and Rescue and the situation of migrants in Libya with Médecins sans frontières.</p><p>We remain committed to supporting Greece's efforts to manage migration effectively. We are working with the Greek Government, who retain responsibility for the situation of migrants in the country, to this end. United Kingdom vessels have rescued 16,000 migrants in the Aegean since 2015.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:26:12 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1167877

registered interest
date	04/11/2019
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	Yemen: Religious Freedom
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 treatment of religious minority communities in Yemen; what information they have about the appeal against a death sentence in the case of Hamid bin Haydara; and whether they will release that information.
tabling member printed	Lord Dholakia
uin	HL578
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>We stressed our concerns about Mr bin Haydara’s case with the Houthis directly on 6 October. We strongly condemn Mr bin Haydara's death sentence and the continued persecution of Baha'is in Yemen for their religious beliefs. We continue to follow the treatment of the Baha’is in Yemen closely, including through meeting their representatives in the UK and lobbying the relevant authorities. We continue to call on the parties to the conflict to respect the human rights of all Yemenis.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:19:50 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2685 label Biography information for Lord Dholakia

1167878

registered interest
date	04/11/2019
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	Yemen: Baha'i Faith
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports of the repression of members of the Bahá'í community in north Yemen; and what representations they have made to representatives of the Houthis about freedom of religion or belief in those areas under their de facto governance.
tabling member printed	Lord Dholakia
uin	HL579
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>The UK strongly condemns the mistreatment of Baha’is who are being persecuted for their religious beliefs in areas under the control of the Houthis. We are working closely with our partners to raise these concerns directly with the Houthi authorities and urge the release of detained individuals. We continue to call on the parties to the conflict for the human rights of all Yemenis to be respected.</p><p>I raised the religious persecution of the Baha’i community in my statement of 22 October on human rights. We continue to follow the treatment of the Baha’is in Yemen closely, including through meeting their representatives in the UK and lobbying the relevant authorities.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:20:56 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2685 label Biography information for Lord Dholakia

1167881

registered interest
date	04/11/2019
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: Ceasefires
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 UN Secretary-General's appeal on 14 October for safe access for civilians in need in north-east Syria; and what assessment they have made of whether the ceasefire in that area (1) is being respected, and (2) will be fully supervised and made permanent.
tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
uin	HL582
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​We welcome the UN Secretary-General's statement on 14 October for safe access for civilians in need in north-east Syria. Our assessment is that the ceasefire in north-east Syria continues to broadly hold, and we welcome the fact that Turkey has confirmed it has no plans for a further offensive. Implementation of the ceasefire is for the parties directly involved but we have made clear our expectation that all parties abide by the agreed ceasefire, which we wish to see become permanent, and by their obligations under international humanitarian law.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:20:21 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1167883

registered interest
date	04/11/2019
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: Kurds
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what action they are taking to protect the Kurdish population of Northern Syria.
tabling member printed	Lord Truscott
uin	HL584
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​The UK has taken bilateral and multilateral action to end the Turkish military incursion into north-east Syria. We have been consistently clear with Turkey on our opposition to its military action– the Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary and Minister for the Middle East and North Africa each communicated this to their Turkish counterparts, most recently on 26 October. We therefore welcome the fact that the ceasefire is holding and that Turkey has confirmed it has no plans for a further offensive. We continue to call for all parties to ensure the protection of civilians and unhindered, safe and sustainable humanitarian access throughout Syria, including at the UN Security Council.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:25:12 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3682 label Biography information for Lord Truscott

1167884

registered interest
date	04/11/2019
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: Conflict Resolution
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to bring peace to Syria.
tabling member printed	Lord Truscott
uin	HL585
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 05/11/2019 answer text <p>​The UK's priority remains to end the conflict in Syria through a negotiated political settlement. We are providing active support to the UN-led Geneva process between the Syrian parties, which remains the forum to achieve this. We welcomed the launch of the Constitutional Committee in Geneva on 30 October, which we hope will be a first step towards a negotiated settlement. Absent such a settlement, we are clear that we have no plans to re-open our Embassy in Damascus, remove sanctions or provide any reconstruction assistance.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 05/11/2019 17:25:30 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3682 label Biography information for Lord Truscott

1168545

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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	Hong Kong: Health Professions
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 description of the arrests of medical personnel during a confrontation at Hong Kong’s Polytechnic University on 17 November, by Dr Darren Mann, and his call for an international inquiry into breaches of international humanitarian norms and human rights law.
tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
uin	HL3
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>The UK was seriously concerned by the escalation in violence between protesters and the authorities at Hong Kong’s Polytechnic University. At the time, we made clear it was vital that those who were injured were able to receive appropriate medical treatment, and that safe passage was provided to those who wished to leave the area. We take the allegations set out by Dr Mann relating to the arrest of medical personnel at Hong Kong Polytechnic University extremely seriously. We expect the Hong Kong authorities to abide by international humanitarian laws and practices. We have called consistently for a robust, independent inquiry into recent events.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 15:45:41 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1168546

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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	Hong Kong: Health Professions
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 treatment of medical professionals in Hong Kong; and what representations they intend to make to the government of China about such treatment.
tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
uin	HL4
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>We take allegations of the mistreatment of medical personnel in Hong Kong extremely seriously. We expect the Hong Kong authorities to abide by international humanitarian laws and practices. It is vital that those who are injured are able to receive appropriate medical treatment.</p><p>The Foreign Secretary summoned the Chinese Ambassador on 19 November and set out his concerns about the situation in Hong Kong. The leadership in China and Hong Kong is in no doubt about the strength of UK concern over the current situation, and our commitment to seeing the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Joint Declaration upheld. We will continue to raise our concerns with the Hong Kong SAR Government and the authorities in Beijing.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 15:55:18 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1168547

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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	Iraq: Islamic State
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government when they intend to respond to statements by victims of ISIS genocide in Mosul and Sinjar provided by Lord Alton of Liverpool; whether any victims of such crimes have been approached for witness statements; and what progress is being made in collecting evidence and bringing those responsible for genocide and crimes against humanity to justice.
tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
uin	HL5
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>The Government has not, to date, received the statements in question.</p><p>The British Government has not directly approached survivors of Daesh crimes for statements. However, we continue to support the UN Investigative Team for the Accountability of Daesh (UNITAD) and announced an additional £1 million in funding in July to exhume mass graves across Northern Iraq and to collect witness testimony. UNITAD have facilitated the provision of witness testimony directly into domestic court proceedings in Finland via video-link. UNITAD continues to support cases in other countries too.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 16:08:57 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1168548

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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	Persecution of Christians across the Globe Independent Review
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government how, and when, they intend to fully implement all of the recommendations in the Bishop of Truro's Independent Review for the Foreign Secretary of FCO Support for Persecuted Christians, published in July.
tabling member printed	Lord Alton of Liverpool
uin	HL6
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>The British Government is committed to implementing the recommendations from the Bishop of Truro’s Review in a way that will bring real improvements to the lives of those persecuted because of their faith or belief. The recommendations have been divided into short, medium and longer term priorities and we have already implemented a good number of them. This includes recently appointing a Director General level champion for Freedom of Religion or Belief and marking Red Wednesday in support of persecuted Christians and members of other minority groups. Some of the recommendations will take longer to implement and many will require an ongoing effort to embed into the working practices of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and other departments.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 16:10:22 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	738 label Biography information for Lord Alton of Liverpool

1168563

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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: Sanctions
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 8 October (HL17990), what further steps they have taken to minimise the impact on civilians of sanctions imposed on Syria.
tabling member printed	Baroness Cox
uin	HL21
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>We remain at the forefront of the humanitarian response to the crisis in Syria, and have committed £2.81 billion to support Syrian civilians since 2012.</p><p>Sanctions remain a key lever in pressing the regime to engage seriously with the political process and to bring about a peaceful end to the Syrian conflict.</p><p>We actively seek to minimise the impact of sanctions on ordinary Syrians. The EU regularly considers the wider impact of Syria sanctions, most recently ahead of an EU annual review of the Syria sanctions regime which concluded in June. The EU Syria sanctions regime also has a number of exemptions in place in order to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 15:28:05 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3364 label Biography information for Baroness Cox

1168564

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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	Nigeria: Violence
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 reports of multiple attacks, by Fulani militia in Northern and Central Belt states, of torture, murder and the destruction of homes, churches and villages.
tabling member printed	Baroness Cox
uin	HL22
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>We remain concerned by intercommunal violence in Nigeria and the devastating impact it has had on affected communities including heavy loss of life. We continue to push for a solution that meets the needs of all communities affected. We regularly raise our concerns with the Government of Nigeria at the highest levels. The Secretary of State for International Development raised the issue with the Nigerian Vice President and the Governor of Kaduna during his visit in July. He highlighted how factors including ethnicity, religion and climate change are driving intercommunal violence across Nigeria. The UK, including the British High Commission in Abuja, will continue to engage closely with the federal government, state government, international partners and the National Economic Council to help address the underlying issues that cause conflict.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 15:34:58 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3364 label Biography information for Baroness Cox

1168566

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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: Chemical Weapons
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports that evidence gathered by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons Fact Finding Mission was suppressed or distorted.
tabling member printed	Baroness Cox
uin	HL24
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>​The UK has full confidence in the expertise of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapon's (OPCW) Fact Finding Mission (FFM) and its work investigating allegations of chemical weapons use in Syria. The Director-General confirmed that that the OPCW Technical Secretariat took all views and evidence into account in reaching its conclusions in the FFM's most recent report on the incident in Douma, 7 April 2018. The UK stands by its own assessment that the Syrian regime was responsible for a chlorine attack in Douma on that date.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 15:38:33 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3364 label Biography information for Baroness Cox

1168568

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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: Chemical Weapons
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports that chlorine levels found in Douma, Syria, were equivalent to those found in common household cleaning products.
tabling member printed	Baroness Cox
uin	HL26
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>​The UK assesses that the Syrian regime was responsible for a chlorine attack in Douma in April 2018. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Fact Finding Mission (FFM) produced a thorough and clearly evidenced report, which concluded that an attack using chlorine took place. The use of chlorine as a chemical weapon is a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. We have confidence in the conclusion and the OPCW's methodology. The OPCW Director-General confirmed that that the OPCW Technical Secretariat took all views and evidence into account in reaching its conclusions on this incident.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 15:45:19 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3364 label Biography information for Baroness Cox

1168589

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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	Mediterranean Sea: Offshore Drilling
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 reported agreement between Turkey and Libya concerning undersea resources in the Mediterranean; and what plans they have to propose that any such agreement is submitted for international arbitration.
tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
uin	HL47
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>​We are aware that Turkey and Libya signed a Memorandum of Understanding in late November on the &quot;delimitation of maritime jurisdictional areas in the Mediterranean&quot;. It has been our consistent position that maritime boundary disputes should be resolved in accordance with international law as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 15:56:02 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1168590

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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	Russia: Ukraine
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 Paris negotiations between Russia and Ukraine; how they reached any such assessment; and what consideration they have given to modifying the Minsk guidelines to support such negotiations.
tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
uin	HL48
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>​The United Kingdom welcomes the commitments made at the Normandy Summit on 9 December. These commitments, which include comprehensive implementation of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange, are key to securing a diplomatic solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine. We fully support France and Germany in their efforts towards securing the implementation by all parties of the Minsk Agreements. In this regard, we applaud President Zelenskyy’s clear commitment and determined actions to end the conflict and repeat our call on Russia to fulfil its obligations.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 15:56:24 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1168614

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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	China: Uyghurs
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 statement delivered by the UK Permanent Representative to the UN at the Third Committee session on the Committee for the elimination of racial discrimination and the conclusions of the United Nations on the treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjang.
tabling member printed	The Lord Bishop of St Albans
uin	HL72
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>On 29 October at the UN Third Committee, the UK read out a joint statement signed by 22 others drawing attention to the human rights violations and abuses in Xinjiang and called on China to uphold its obligations to respect human rights. We assess that it is important to regularly raise the human rights situation in Xinjiang at multilateral fora and privately with China, and have made clear to China that we will continue to do so until our concerns have been addressed.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 16:10:48 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	4308 label Biography information for The Lord Bishop of St Albans

1168616

registered interest
date	19/12/2019
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	South Sudan: Politics and Government
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to encourage opposition factions in South Sudan led by Riek Machar to form and maintain a unity government; and what protection is provided to such factions by the international community alongside the government of Salva Kiir.
tabling member printed	The Earl of Sandwich
uin	HL74
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 07/01/2020 answer text <p>The UK continues to urge all parties to the September 2018 ‘Revitalised Agreement on the Conflict in South Sudan’ to make the progress necessary for a government of national unity to form and to uphold the associated ceasefire. The DFID/FCO Minister for Africa (Andrew Stephenson) wrote to both parties in November to urge them to make such progress for the sake of the people of South Sudan. Following agreement by the parties to extend the ‘pre-transitional’ phase to February 2020 we have welcomed meetings in Juba between President Kiir and opposition leader Dr Machar but call for further dialogue to deliver progress so that a government of national unity can form and for implementation of the next phase of the peace agreement to begin. This messaging was reinforced at the recent UN Security Council on 18 December 2019. Security in Juba and elsewhere in South Sudan is an important part of building the confidence for opposition parties to participate in a government of national unity. Most recently alongside Troika partners (US and Norway) we issued a statement on 2 January urging the parties to engage in a spirit of compromise on outstanding tasks. As a member of the UN Security Council the UK supports the UN Mission In South Sudan (UNMISS), including through the deployment of UK troops. UNMISS plays a crucial role in supporting the peace process and protection of civilians. Security for political figures to participate in government in Juba is critical but part of the wider peace agreement implementation and for the parties to progress.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 07/01/2020 16:12:47 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2109 label Biography information for The Earl of Sandwich

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

1169256

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	Colombia: 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 threat to the security of Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities, especially the Embera–Wounaan, on the Pacific coast of Colombia, following reports of armed skirmishes between paramilitaries, the Army of National Liberation and Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia for control of the land.
tabling member printed	Baroness Coussins
uin	HL112
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 15/01/2020 answer text <p>​We are aware of reports of violence on Colombia's Pacific coast. The presence of organised armed groups, fighting for control of illicit economies, disproportionately affects a number of Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities. Our Embassy regularly raises concerns about specific communities with the relevant state actors in Colombia. We support the Colombian government's deployment of further security forces to attempt to guarantee security. More widely, long-term security depends on socioeconomic development of the region and vice versa, key reasons why Her Majesty's Government remains steadfast in its support for the 2016 peace process and why the United Kingdom maintains significant development programming in Colombia.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 15/01/2020 12:22:52 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3829 label Biography information for Baroness Coussins

1169257

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	Colombia: 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 reports of collusion between the Colombian security forces and illegal armed groups.
tabling member printed	Baroness Coussins
uin	HL113
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 15/01/2020 answer text <p>​We are aware that organised armed groups operate in parts of Colombia, and of occasional reports that some members of the security forces are complicit in these groups' activities. We support the Colombian government's efforts to root out any such collaboration, including via our specific programme work to foster good governance and tackle corruption in security forces.</p><p>Colombia has made significant progress in its efforts to end the influence of paramilitary groups. We have seen little recent evidence of any widespread collusion between security forces and organised armed groups.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 15/01/2020 12:30:34 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3829 label Biography information for Baroness Coussins

1169258

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	Colombia: 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 impact on the UK's investment of funding to support the biodiversity hotspot on the Pacific coast of Colombia, of the (1) activities of paramilitary groups in the region, and (2) threat of displacement to the indigenous communities.
tabling member printed	Baroness Coussins
uin	HL114
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 15/01/2020 answer text <p>​The United Kingdom recognises the unique biodiversity of Colombia's Pacific coast and is committed to helping Colombia safeguard its environmental assets. Although this region is not the focus of our programming, the United Kingdom has implemented some climate change-related projects in the region, as well as some Newton Fund research projects on biodiversity and sustainability.</p><p>We are aware of reports of violence affecting certain areas in this region, and of the continuing presence of organised armed groups competing for control of illicit economies.</p><p>The British Government takes into careful consideration such factors when designing projects and deciding which to fund, and we continually monitor the effect of such risks on our programme work in consultation with colleagues working in Colombia. We also make a thorough assessment of the impact of all of our projects, including on the human rights of local communities.</p><p>We are steadfast in our support of the Colombian peace process, and UK-funded programmes across a range of issues from biodiversity to climate change help to improve the socio-economic conditions in rural areas and tackle the root causes of insecurity, building towards a sustainable peace.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 15/01/2020 12:39:18 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3829 label Biography information for Baroness Coussins

1169259

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	Syria: Chemical Weapons
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the Chief of Cabinet to the Director General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons played any role in redrafting the experts' report of their findings with regard to the alleged use of chemical weapons in Douma, Syria.
tabling member printed	Baroness Cox
uin	HL115
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 20/01/2020 answer text <p>​I refer the noble Lady to my answer of 7 January 2020 to questions HL24 and 26.</p><p>It is entirely a matter for the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons how it conducts its investigations and produces its reports.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 20/01/2020 14:28:35 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3364 label Biography information for Baroness Cox

1169260

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	Syria: Chemical Weapons
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the Mayday Rescue Foundation, in its role as a UK-implementing partner, was involved in choosing witnesses for interview by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons Douma Fact-Finding Mission on behalf of the UK; and whether they are aware of any investigation for possible financial irregularities in respect of that foundation.
tabling member printed	Baroness Cox
uin	HL116
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 20/01/2020 answer text <p>I refer the noble Lady to my answer of 7 January 2020 to questions HL24 and 26.</p><p>It is entirely a matter for the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons how it conducts its investigations and produces its reports. The noble Lady also asked about Mayday Rescue, which is an implementing partner for the Government's Conflict, Stability and Security Fund. We work closely with all our implementing partners, including Mayday Rescue, to ensure they meet the tests for spending public money; this includes by ensuring that audits are commissioned on at least an annual basis. All Government aid spending is subject to robust scrutiny to ensure it represents value for money for British taxpayers.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 20/01/2020 14:30:12 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3364 label Biography information for Baroness Cox

1169261

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	Australia: Fires
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what assistance, if any, they have offered to the government of Australia to deal with the bushfire crises.
tabling member printed	Baroness Crawley
uin	HL117
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 15/01/2020 answer text <p>The Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary and I have been in contact with our Australian counterparts to offer our condolences and stress our readiness to help in whatever way they need. I also met with FM Payne on the 3 January in Sydney and offered our full support.</p><p>As set out by FCO Minister Heather Wheeler in her Oral Statement of 9 January, we have deployed a team of UK experts to Australia.</p><p>The team includes a senior member of UK Fire and Rescue Service, a medical specialist in trauma and mental health, and a military liaison officer specialising in crisis response.</p><p>They will work with Australian counterparts to establish what further UK support will be of most use to Australian emergency responders, and ensure that such contributions are fully integrated with Australian efforts.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 15/01/2020 12:22:12 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	3386 label Biography information for Baroness Crawley

1169278

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	Libya and Niger: Migrants
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 conditions under which migrants detained in Libya and Niger are held; and in particular, what steps they intend to take to ensure that those on boats who are stopped by the EU-funded Libyan coastguard are not subjected to inhumane and degrading treatment.
tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
uin	HL134
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 21/01/2020 answer text <p>​We remain concerned by the appalling conditions faced by migrants in detention centres, particularly in Libya. We continue to urge the Libyan authorities to pursue alternatives to detention and implement a better functioning migration system that respects human rights.</p><p>The EU does not directly fund the Libyan coastguard. The training support to the Libyan Coastguard and Navy (LCGN), which is provided through the EU naval Operation Sophia to which the UK currently contributes common funding, aims to increase Libyans' ability to secure their own maritime borders and to manage search and rescue activities properly in a human rights compliant way. We expect all vessels to operate in accordance with international maritime law, including the exercise of restraint in the use of force, and adherence to established human rights norms. All Libyan trainees are screened to ensure that we are not training anyone previously found to have been involved in human rights violations. The EU training package (which includes International Humanitarian Law and human rights components) aims to equip the Libyan Coastguard with the skills required to manage search and rescue activities properly, in a human rights compliant manner. As part of Her Majesty's Government's human rights policy, we keep this training programme under continual review.</p><p>The UK, through bilateral and EU programming, is protecting and supporting migrants along the Central Mediterranean Route, including in Niger. This includes provision of humanitarian assistance and information on risks along the route, as well as facilitating Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration and refugee resettlement. These return and resettlement activities have led to thousands being moved from Libya to safe countries.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 21/01/2020 16:09:32 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1169281

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	Palestinians: Elections
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they intend to take, including in conjunction with other countries, to ensure that the first Palestinian elections in 13 years are held; and in particular, that Palestinians in East Jerusalem are able to vote.
tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
uin	HL137
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 20/01/2020 answer text <p>Along with EU partners, we have encouraged the Palestinian leadership to work toward strong, inclusive, accountable and democratic institutions, based on respect for the rule of law and human rights.</p><p>We welcome work towards genuine and democratic national elections for all Palestinians. We consider this to be crucial in view of the establishment of a viable and sovereign Palestinian State. To this end, we call on all Palestinian factions to seek common ground and to work together to pursue a positive path towards new elections.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 20/01/2020 14:33:42 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1169282

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	Israel: Palestinians
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 Israel about (1) the convictions of 4,519 persons during the five years ending in June 2019 for failing to comply with military orders declaring closed military zones, and (2) the use of regulations dating from the time of the League of Nations Mandate.
tabling member printed	Lord Hylton
uin	HL138
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 20/01/2020 answer text <p>As part of our frequent engagement with Israel with respect to its obligations as an occupying power under the Fourth Geneva Convention, officials in our Embassy in Tel Aviv have raised with the Israeli authorities both the issue of closed military zones being declared by the Israel Defence Force, and their implementation of specific laws and regulations, including ones dating from the mandate period, in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 20/01/2020 14:34:16 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	2018 label Biography information for Lord Hylton

1169286

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	Qassem Soleimani
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government when the government of the United States of America first informed them of their military operation on 3 January which killed General Qasem Soleimani.
tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
uin	HL142
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 21/01/2020 answer text <p>We became aware of the operation as it happened. We do not comment on our allies' operational decisions.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 21/01/2020 16:10:13 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1169290

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	Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government when they last made representations to the government of Iran about the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe; when the Prime Minister last did so directly; whether they have done so since 3 January; and in all such cases, what response they received.
tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
uin	HL146
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 17/01/2020 answer text <p>The Foreign Secretary raised his concerns about dual national detentions with Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif on 6 January. The Prime Minister raised his concerns with Iranian President Rouhani on 9 January. The Minister for the Middle East and North Africa called for their release in his call with Deputy Foreign Minister Araghchi on 12 January. We remain extremely concerned about the welfare of all British-Iranian dual nationals detained in Iran, including Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe. We have made clear to Iran that we expect them to ensure she is treated humanely and in line with international standards. We continue to request immediate consular access.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 17/01/2020 11:51:29 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1169291

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	Hong Kong: Politics and Government
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their understanding of the current situation in Hong Kong.
tabling member printed	The Marquess of Lothian
uin	HL147
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 20/01/2020 answer text <p>We remain seriously concerned at the situation in Hong Kong. We condemn the minority of protestors who insist on using violence. It must stop. As I stated on 15 January 2020 it is essential that protests are conducted peacefully, within the law, and that the authorities respond proportionately. We have consistently called for a robust, credible and independent investigation into events in Hong Kong. The UK is fully committed to upholding Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy and rights and freedoms under the &quot;One Country, Two Systems&quot; framework, which is guaranteed by the legally binding Joint Declaration. As the Foreign Secretary stated on 19 December 2019 the only way to guarantee Hong Kong's future success and stability is by respecting these and addressing the legitimate concerns of the people of Hong Kong through meaningful political dialogue. The commitments made by China in the Joint Declaration, including the right to freedom of speech and an independent judiciary, are essential to Hong Kong's prosperity and way of life. We expect China to live up to its obligations under the Joint Declaration and to its wider international human rights law obligations, as a responsible and law abiding member of the international community.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 20/01/2020 14:35:02 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	259 label Biography information for The Marquess of Lothian

1169294

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	Sri Lanka: Politics and Government
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have, or seek, a two-state solution for Sri-Lanka.
tabling member printed	Lord Naseby
uin	HL150
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 15/01/2020 answer text <p>The British Government does absolutely not have or seek a two-state solution for Sri Lanka.​</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 15/01/2020 12:39:31 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	1251 label Biography information for Lord Naseby

1169299

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	Tunisia: Foreign Relations
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 present state of relations between the UK and Tunisia.
tabling member printed	Lord Patten
uin	HL155
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 21/01/2020 answer text <p>​The UK and Tunisia have a strong relationship. The signing of the UK-Tunisia Association Agreement on 4 October, and the UK-Tunisia Investment Forum on 22 October 2019 are recent highlights of our growing bilateral co-operation. We are committed to supporting Tunisia’s political and economic reform, including through a programme of assistance worth over £12 million in 2019-2020. ​We look forward to working with the new Tunisian Government when it is formed and welcome Tunisia’s participation in the UK-Africa Investment Summit in London on 20 January.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 21/01/2020 16:11:15 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	1137 label Biography information for Lord Patten

1169307

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	Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe
house id	2
legislature	25277 pref label House of Lords
question text	To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent representations they have made about the continuing imprisonment of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe.
tabling member printed	Baroness Quin
uin	HL163
answer	answer is ministerial correction date of answer 17/01/2020 answer text <p>​The Foreign Secretary raised his concerns about dual national detentions with Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif on 6 January. The Prime Minister raised his concerns with Iranian President Rouhani on 9 January. The Minister for the Middle East and North Africa called for their release in his call with Deputy Foreign Minister Araghchi on 12 January. We remain extremely concerned about the welfare of all British-Iranian dual nationals detained in Iran, including Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe. We have made clear to Iran that we expect them to ensure she is treated humanely and in line with international standards. We continue to request immediate consular access.</p> answering member printed Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon question first answered 17/01/2020 11:51:54 answering member 4210 label Biography information for Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
tabling member	518 label Biography information for Baroness Quin