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Arrest of Sudanese Prime Minister
25 October 2021
Lead MP
Vicky Ford
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
DefenceForeign Affairs
Other Contributors: 11
At a Glance
Vicky Ford raised concerns about arrest of sudanese prime minister in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
The UK strongly condemns the arrest of civilian members of Sudan’s transitional Government by the military and reports of shooting at protesters. The UK has been a consistent advocate for democratic transition since the 2019 revolution, but today's actions represent an unacceptable betrayal of democracy. The Minister was in Khartoum last week and stressed the need to support the civilian-led Government. She urges Sudan’s military leadership to release detained politicians including Prime Minister Hamdok and allow peaceful protests without fear of violence. UK officials are working to establish full details, updated travel advice reflects the unrest. The UK will work with international partners for a public statement later today.
Chi Onwurah
Lab
Newcastle upon Tyne Central
Question
The last military coup in Sudan caused severe human rights abuses, the armed forces must not take control. UK met General al-Burhan recently but questions productive discussions and if strategic dialogue meetings are cancelled or assistance planned. Urges military to ensure protestors aren't harmed like before and condemns suspension of investigations into 3 June 2019 massacres.
Minister reply
Discussions included support for constitutional arrangements, economic matters, urging respect for the International Criminal Court process and ending port blockades in eastern Sudan. UK supports holding those responsible to account including past crimes and today’s actions.
Thomas Tugendhat
Con
Tonbridge
Question
Welcomes Minister's words, situation over which we have little control. Asks about conversations with regional Governments who support Sudanese military, neighbouring states such as Egypt, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Somalia and Somaliland and Saudi Arabia.
Minister reply
Working with international partners for a public statement later today, welcomes African Union’s response and will work with all of Sudan's friends to apply pressure. Calling for a briefing at the UN Security Council ensuring highest levels of attention.
Stephen Doughty
Lab Co-op
Cardiff South and Penarth
Question
Expresses deep concern over Sudan's military coup, including arrest of Prime Minister Hamdok and impact on civilians. Questions the success of recent meetings with Sudanese officials and asks about immediate action being taken by the UK and international community.
Minister reply
Reiterates support for civilian-led government and democratic transition. Acknowledges ongoing humanitarian aid despite coup, including projects such as school food provision through WFP. Emphasises need to reassess financial support in light of recent events.
Andrew Mitchell
Con
Sutton Coldfield
Question
Asks if debt relief discussions will be halted until military returns to barracks and a lawful regime is established, proposing consideration of sanctions including Magnitsky sanctions.
Minister reply
Agrees with concern. Confirms that the UK used its G7 presidency for an ambitious financing package but now reassesses support in light of coup.
Question
Asks about UK arms exports and military support to Sudan, inquires if current support is being suspended.
Minister reply
Reassures that phased defence engagement will be reassessed considering the current situation.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Question
Inquires about ideological affiliations of coup plotters and their relationship with Sudan’s Islamist movement.
Minister reply
Notes communications black-out but emphasises that military leadership must support civilian-led government and democratic transition.
Question
Asks if the UK will call for a special UN Human Rights Council session on Sudan’s situation.
Minister reply
States that the UK is already calling for a briefing at the UN Security Council to address the situation.
Question
Raises concerns about impact of coup on religious minorities in Sudan, asks if Minister will work with International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance.
Minister reply
Agrees that actions are a setback for freedoms and democracy, emphasising the importance of ensuring people can meet to protest and pray without fear.
Hilary Benn
Lab
Leeds South
Question
Welcomes the Minister’s response to the urgent question and expresses hope that no harm will come to those arrested. Asks about the impact of these events on the wider political situation in the region.
Minister reply
Agrees with Hilary Benn, stating that those arrested should be immediately released. Emphasises continued work with Sudan’s international friends and African Union to pressure the military to return Sudan to a democratic path.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Question
Thanks the Minister for her response, expresses concern over violent situations in Sudan and human rights violations against minorities. Asks about steps to ensure additional support and assistance is offered to vulnerable groups.
Minister reply
Confirms that peaceful demonstrations were seen on a recent visit to Khartoum and reiterates importance of allowing protests without fear of violence, including for minority groups.
Shadow Comment
Chi Onwurah
Shadow Comment
The last military coup in Sudan caused severe human rights abuses including war crimes and genocide, the armed forces must not take control. The Minister met General al-Burhan recently but the UK needs to be assertive in supporting democracy. She questions what productive discussions included and if strategic dialogue meetings are cancelled or assistance planned. Urges military to ensure protestors aren't harmed like before and condemns suspension of investigations into 3 June 2019 massacres.
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