Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Detention of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang

09 September 2020 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Shabana Mahmood Lab Birmingham Ladywood

Asylum & Refugees

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Shabana Mahmood raised concerns about detention of uyghur muslims in xinjiang in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Shabana Mahmood expressed deep concern over China's campaign of genocide against Uyghur people in Xinjiang, highlighting internment camps and forced sterilization.
  • The MP called for Magnitsky-style sanctions on individuals involved in human rights violations and urged the government to consider corporate accountability.
  • The minister acknowledged ongoing concerns about restrictions on freedom of religion or belief, speech, and association for Uyghurs in Xinjiang and condemned China's actions as an egregious abuse of human rights.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Shabana Mahmood Lab Birmingham Ladywood

The hon. Member for Birmingham, Ladywood (Shabana Mahmood) expressed deep concern over the Chinese Government's campaign of genocide against Uyghur people in Xinjiang. She highlighted that despite growing international outrage, China continues its oppressive actions, including internment camps housing over 1 million people and forced sterilisation of women. The MP called for Magnitsky-style sanctions on individuals involved in human rights violations and urged the Government to consider corporate accountability related to supply chains and forced labour. She also advocated for exploring innovative legal approaches such as establishing an impartial UN mechanism and investigating international law options.

Other contributors (2)
  • Nusrat Ghani Con Wealden

    The hon. Member for Wealden agreed with the case made by Shabana Mahmood, emphasising the need for the Government to take more decisive action.

  • Zarah Sultana Lab Coventry South

    My hon. Friend highlighted the importance of corporate accountability regarding supply chains and preventing goods produced through forced labour from entering our markets.

Government Response

Nigel Adams

The Minister acknowledged the strength of feeling around the issue and detailed ongoing concerns about restrictions on freedom of religion or belief, speech, and association for Uyghurs in Xinjiang. He noted that the UK Government condemn China's actions as an egregious abuse of human rights, with over a million individuals detained without trial. The minister confirmed that sanctions under the global human rights regime are being carefully considered based on evidence but declined to speculate further due to potential impact reduction. He reiterated calls for China to meet its international obligations and respect freedom of religion or belief.

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