Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Arrest of Egyptian Human Rights Advocates

08 December 2020 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Rushanara Ali Lab Bethnal Green and Stepney

ImmigrationForeign Affairs

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Rushanara Ali raised concerns about arrest of egyptian human rights advocates in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Rushanara Ali raised concerns about the arrest of human rights activist Karim Ennarah in Egypt after a meeting with diplomats.
  • Ennarah was held without trial in Tora prison and was later released under international pressure but remains under surveillance.
  • The UK Government pledged to continue monitoring the situation and raising concerns about the misuse of anti-terrorism legislation in Egypt.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Rushanara Ali Lab Bethnal Green and Stepney

Rushanara Ali raised concerns about the arrests of human rights activists in Egypt, focusing on the case of Karim Ennarah. She detailed his background as a master’s graduate from the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London and highlighted his arrest alongside colleagues by Egyptian security services. The arrests occurred after a meeting with diplomats from several countries to discuss the human rights situation in Egypt. Ennarah was held without trial in Tora prison, known for its harsh conditions. After international pressure, he was released but remains under surveillance and asset freeze orders. Ali praised her constituent Jessica Kelly's campaigning efforts and urged the government to facilitate Ennarah’s reunion with his wife in the UK. She also expressed concern about broader human rights violations in Egypt, including arbitrary imprisonment, torture, extrajudicial killings, and lack of free elections.

Other contributors (2)
  • Unnamed MP

    The hon. Gentleman is right; the strength of our partnership should be judged by the ability to provide constructive criticism on human rights violations.

  • Unnamed MP

    We must ensure that we shine a spotlight, through diplomatic means and relationships, to prevent arbitrary arrests and detentions of those fighting for others’ rights.

Government Response

James Cleverly

The Minister acknowledged the work done by Rushanara Ali in advocating for Karim Ennarah’s release. He praised her efforts and those of Jessica Kelly, expressing relief at the release on December 3rd of Ennarah along with Mohammed Basheer and Gasser Abdel-Razek. However, he noted that the case remains open. The UK Government will continue to closely monitor the situation and raise concerns about anti-terrorism legislation misuse. He reiterated the broader commitment to human rights defenders and stressed ongoing dialogue with Egypt on these matters. The Foreign Secretary raised direct concerns regarding Ennarah’s arrest and senior officials continued advocacy. The British embassy in Cairo worked closely with international partners, including European counterparts. Trade between the UK and Egypt was valued at £3.5 billion in 2019; a new association agreement aims to boost trade post-Brexit transition period. The Minister clarified that while advancing economic partnerships, concerns about human rights would be raised concurrently. He expressed concern over Ennarah’s inability to leave Egypt and reiterated the UK's commitment to promoting human rights globally.

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