Bahrain: Prisoners Under Sentence of Death

Emphasised the UK’s ongoing dialogue with Bahrain, expressing that human rights concerns are raised both publicly and privately. He confirmed the UK's stance against capital punishment and reiterated that cases of Mohammed Ramadhan and Hussain Moosa were discussed at senior levels.

Expressed gratitude to the Minister for his response. Highlighted previous cases he worked on involving wrongful convictions and torture, urging Bahrain to take into account views expressed by the UK House of Commons regarding human rights concerns.

Complimented Peter Bottomley for raising the matter. Criticised the effectiveness of the UK's engagement with Bahrain on this issue, citing increased use of torture and executions despite funding support. Called for an independent inquiry into alleged abuses.

Welcomed Peter Bottomley’s urgent question and referred to a 2018 report questioning the UK's support of Bahraini oversight bodies due to torture cases. Urged the Minister to consider his position on the matter.

Congratulated Peter Bottomley for securing the urgent question and questioned the effectiveness of UK’s technical assistance programme in Bahrain. Suggested reviewing or suspending the programme if death sentences are confirmed.

The UK Government remains committed to promoting universal freedoms and human rights around the world, with Bahrain being a human rights priority country. The relationship between the UK and Bahrain allows for frank conversations about improving human rights situations. If death penalties are upheld in Bahrain, the UK will continue to oppose them publicly.

Asked what actions the Government is taking to ensure that Bahrain meets its human rights obligations and how they position the UK at the forefront of promoting human rights globally.

Questioned whether the Government will make effective representations for Mohammed Ramadhan and Hussain Moosa before their Court of Cassation’s final decision, given only five days to save their lives.

Suggested that private comments might be more effective in achieving results regarding human rights issues. Asked about efforts being made to ensure freedom of the press in Bahrain.

Co-chair of the all-party parliamentary human rights group, asked for an urgent meeting to discuss cases of Mohammed Ramadhan and Hussain Moosa before their Court of Cassation’s final decision.

Asked about measures being taken by the Department to ensure political reform and democratic accountability in Bahrain.

Questioned the Minister on whether he would publish the assessment carried out under OSJA in relation to assistance provided to Bahrain, suggesting an overhaul of the process is needed.

Asked how the Government ensures that Bahrain is clear about the UK’s position on human rights.

Asked whether the UK Government will impose sanctions on individuals and organisations in the Bahraini authorities who have been complicit in torture.

Congratulated his colleague for bringing forward an urgent question, asked about cutting technical assistance to Bahrain, suggested using influence with Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to ensure sentencing discretion is reduced.

Asked the Minister if he would ask our ambassador in Bahrain to urgently attend their trial as an international observer.

Emphasised the strength of UK-Bahrain diplomatic relationship, highlighting the ambassador's engagement in human rights issues. Assured that the UK will continue to engage Bahrain regarding the death penalty and human rights reforms.

Asked for reassurances that the full range of diplomatic channels would be used to encourage reform in Bahrain, including human rights and political improvements.

Expressed concern over 10 prisoners on death row facing imminent execution and questioned the effectiveness of UK sanctions against individuals involved in human rights abuses.

Asked about Bahrain's constitutional right to a fair trial, encouraging the Government of Bahrain to follow due process.

Raised concerns over UK-funded training for oversight institutions in Bahrain that have been involved in whitewashing human rights abuses and facilitating executions.

Argued for the fairness of Bahrain's judicial system, noting that both men were convicted based on evidence and testimony. Hoped the King would commute death sentences if upheld.

Asked about steps being taken by HM Government to end the death penalty globally, particularly in relation to the two individuals sentenced to death in Bahrain.

Confirmed that human rights remain at the heart of UK foreign policy and that this is exemplified by designating Bahrain as a priority country for human rights issues.

Inquired about the content of training provided by the College of Policing to oversight bodies in Bahrain, specifically regarding treatment of prisoners and use of torture.

Asked for an update on discussions with Bahrain concerning freedom of religion, highlighting its importance in UK foreign policy.

Questioned the efficacy of encouraging Bahrain to follow due process and meet international human rights obligations after legal remedies are exhausted for those on death row.

Asked the Minister to provide further assurances that the Government will take every possible step to safeguard press freedoms in Bahrain, given its key importance in ensuring human rights.

Stated that there are concerns about the diversity of the press in Bahrain and it remains a human rights priority for the UK. The Government encourages Bahrain to bring forward proposed legislation swiftly to improve oversight bodies within the country.

Expressed concern about the FCO's defence of the Bahraini ombudsman and Special Investigations Unit, which seem flawed in their investigations into alleged torture. He appealed to the Minister not to rest on this issue as it is a matter of justice and life and death.

Reaffirmed that oversight bodies are important for transparency, effectiveness, and resilience. The Government aims to help Bahrain improve its institutions and supports the country's desire for improvement in this regard.