Kazakhstan: Anti-corruption Sanctions

Opened the debate

The right hon. Member for Barking called attention to foreign corruption, particularly in Kazakhstan, and the UK's role in enabling illicit finance and kleptocracy. She highlighted that despite Kazakhstan's economic growth over the past three decades, a kleptocratic elite has stolen from its people. The MP cited examples of Kazakh oligarchs who have benefited financially through illegal means such as bribery, money laundering, and asset seizure. She urged the UK government to impose sanctions on these individuals under the new anti-corruption sanctions regime and ensure that upcoming economic crime legislation is tough enough to prevent dirty money in the UK.

Government Response

The Minister for Exports, International Investment and Trade acknowledged the debate and highlighted ongoing efforts by the UK government to combat illicit finance and corruption. He noted that Kazakhstan’s violent protests in January highlighted legitimate socio-economic grievances but also warned of an attempted coup. The Government are seeking further information about these events while supporting investigative commissions set up to address the issues. Additional resources have been allocated for economic crime reform, Companies House reform, and anti-money laundering measures. The UK supports initiatives such as the National Crime Agency’s international corruption unit (ICU), International Anti-Corruption Coordination Centre (IACCC), joint money laundering intelligence taskforce, and global anti-corruption sanctions regime to tackle transnational corruption and illicit finance effectively. While noting that it can be counterproductive to detail future sanction designations, officials will take note of the individuals highlighted by Dame Margaret Hodge.