Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief Bill - Third Reading

17 May 2024 · 9 other contributors

Opened by Fiona Bruce Con Congleton

Religion & Faith

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Fiona Bruce raised concerns about special envoy for freedom of religion or belief bill - third reading in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Ms Fiona Bruce moves that the Bill be read a third time, stressing its importance in making the role of special envoy for freedom of religion or belief a permanent statutory position.
  • Ms Bruce highlights the cross-party support and international interest in the bill, stating it fulfills manifesto commitments and addresses an orphaned right to freedom of religion or belief.
  • Ms Bruce provides examples of religious persecution worldwide and argues that securing the special envoy role will facilitate effective action against such abuses.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Fiona Bruce Con Congleton

Ms Fiona Bruce moves that the Bill be read a third time, emphasising its importance in securing the role of special envoy for freedom of religion or belief as a permanent fixture in statute. She highlights the cross-party support and international interest in the bill, noting it fulfils manifesto commitments while also addressing an orphaned right to freedom of religion or belief (FORB). She provides examples of persecution around the world and argues that securing this role will enable effective action against such abuses.

Other contributors (9)
  • Vicky Ford Con North Cambridgeshire

    Intervenes to thank Fiona Bruce for her work as special envoy and highlights the impact of religious leaders in preventing violence, citing Sudan and South Sudan where religious figures played a significant role in calling for an end to conflict.

  • Nickie Aiken Con Cities of London and Westminster

    Supports the Bill, emphasising that it is about freedom of belief as well as religion. She agrees with Fiona Bruce's point that the Bill supports people's right to feel what they feel, regardless of their religious affiliation.

  • Karen Bradley Con Staffordshire Moorlands

    Supports the Bill introduced by Fiona Bruce and emphasises her role as chair of the British Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in supporting politicians who face persecution due to their religion. Highlights the importance of interfaith dialogue and the support provided by faith groups, particularly religious leaders, to victims of modern slavery.

  • Therese Coffey

    Supports the Bill but acknowledges that Parliament often creates offices too quickly. Emphasises the importance of protecting freedom of religion or belief and highlights the work of nuns around the world, including in dangerous situations like modern slavery. Mentions the need to challenge countries like India on their treatment of Christians.

  • Lisa Cameron SNP East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow

    Supports the work of Fiona Bruce on the Bill and in her role as special envoy for freedom of religion or belief. Cites a visit by Fiona Bruce to St Bride’s parish church in East Kilbride, highlighting the importance of the role she is playing. Emphasises that the support for this role transcends constituency boundaries across the UK.

  • Catherine West Lab Hornsey and Friern Barnet

    Congratulates Fiona Bruce on her commitment to freedom of religion or belief, acknowledging its development into a broader issue with international resonance. Stresses Labour's commitment to human rights as a core tenet and supports cross-party collaboration to address religious persecution globally.

  • Anne-Marie Trevelyan Con South West Durham

    Supports the Bill, emphasising its importance in cementing the role of the special envoy and reinforcing the Government’s commitment to freedom of religion or belief. Acknowledges the work done by Fiona Bruce as the current special envoy and highlights the positive impact on prisoners of conscience.

  • Fiona Bruce Con Congleton

    Expresses gratitude to colleagues for their support, including the Minister. Emphasises that the Bill embeds collective commitment and solidarity with individuals worldwide who stand courageously for their faith or belief despite discrimination, harassment, persecution.

  • Nigel Evans Con Rhondda

    Honours Sir David Amess as a huge supporter of the Bill and expresses regret at his absence from the debate.

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