Fiona Bruce
MP for Congleton
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Today is Red Wednesday when we remember millions of Christians and others worldwide who are persecuted for their faith. Does the Prime Minister agree that the best way that we can honour Red Wednesday today is to commit to quickly implementing the good words of the new International Development White Paper, which was published yesterday?
Context
The questioner refers to Red Wednesday, a day commemorating millions persecuted worldwide for their faith.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend for her continuing dedication as my special envoy on this vital issue. Marking this event annually is just one of the recommendations in the Bishop of Truro's report. We have taken forward all 22 recommendations in a way that we believe is making a real change for those persecuted for their religion or belief.
Assessment
Did not directly address whether PM agrees on quick implementation of International Development White Paper
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree that securing a strong economy is key? Will he confirm that unlike the Labour party, his government will not make any unfunded spending commitments that would increase national debt?
Context
The Labour party has made £90 billion in unfunded spending commitments recently, raising concerns about economic stability. The questioner seeks to differentiate the Conservative approach from Labour's on this issue.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. We must be disciplined on spending and borrowing to safeguard public services for future generations, unlike Labour's £90 billion in unfunded spending commitments.
Session: PMQs
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The UK again highlighted the need for more action to prevent sexual violence in conflict this week at an international conference. Given reports that a third of women in conflict zones can be victims, will the Prime Minister champion my work as his special envoy for freedom of religion or belief with young people across the world to stop religion or belief being weaponised?
Context
UK hosted an international conference on preventing sexual violence in conflict, with over 50 countries agreeing to end such violence. Highlighted the need for more action and work with young people to stop religion or belief being weaponised.
Rishi Sunak
I am incredibly grateful to my hon. Friend for her dedicated work in this area. She is absolutely right to highlight the fact that, this week, the UK hosted the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative conference where over 50 different countries have agreed to put an end to sexual violence in conflict.
Session: PMQs
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Around 1,000 delegates from 100 countries are at the freedom of religion or belief international ministerial conference over at the QEII centre today, and there is still time for hon. Members to visit. Does the Prime Minister agree that this significant conference will count for nothing unless it results in concerted global action to promote and protect freedom of religion or belief around the world?
Context
An international ministerial conference on freedom of religion or belief has begun, attended by delegates from around the world.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend very much. Freedom of religion or belief is integral to people's identity, their sense of themselves and their personal security. I thank her for her work as my envoy on this subject, and for the wonderful conference she has organised. It was great to talk to her about it yesterday.
Session: PMQs
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We have an Afghan citizens resettlement scheme coming. We have already taken 15,000, but it is important that we get that scheme right. Further details, including the eligibility criteria, will be announced by the Home Office in due course.
Context
The question is prompted by the Government's promise to support Afghans who are members of religious minorities facing persecution, including those at risk due to their beliefs.
Boris Johnson
Further details, including the eligibility criteria, will be announced by the Home Office in due course.
Assessment
The timeline for the resettlement scheme was not provided.
Announced By The Home Office
Session: PMQs
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Two years ago, the Bishop of Truro produced an interim report outlining the global phenomenon of the persecution of Christians. As we make progress on our manifesto commitment fully to implement the Truro review recommendations, will the Prime Minister join me in looking forward to our hosting the international ministerial conference on freedom of religion or belief next year, and to the UK demonstrating its global leadership in defending and promoting this universal right for all?
Context
The Bishop of Truro produced an interim report outlining the global persecution of Christians.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend very much for everything she is doing to campaign for freedom of religion and belief. I am very pleased that we are going to be holding an international conference on this issue.
Session: PMQs
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May I associate myself with the Prime Minister's remarks in respect of our servicemen and women, past and present, in protecting our peace? With regard to our battle against covid, senior Church leaders have this past week issued a call for prayer across our nation. The Prime Minister, I know, is very well aware of the persecution suffered by countless people of faith across the world for wanting to pray and manifest their faith. Will he join me in supporting our Church leaders' call for prayer and in championing the universal human right of freedom of religion or belief wherever one lives?
Context
Church leaders have called for prayer in the battle against COVID-19, highlighting persecution of people of faith worldwide.
Boris Johnson
Yes, indeed, and I thank my hon. Friend for the work that she does to champion that cause. We all know that wherever freedom of belief is under attack, other human rights are under attack as well. We will continue to work closely with like-minded partners to stand up for members of such marginalised communities.
Session: PMQs
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Questions about extending troubled families program and manifest pledge for championing family hubs.
Context
Refers to manifesto commitment to strong families.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
Acknowledges inclusion of family hubs in manifesto thanks to Fiona Bruce, working with local authorities to champion and deliver them.
Session: PMQs
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Three all-party parliamentary groups, including that on international freedom of religion or belief, recently produced an inquiry report, “The Silencing of Democracy in Nicaragua”, outlining widespread, grave and brutal human rights violations by the regime against journalists, academics, political opponents, religious leaders and wider civil society. Our report makes recommendations for the UK Government and other states. What public steps will Ministers take, both unilaterally and jointly with other countries, to challenge those violations, to support the victims and survivors, such as Bishop Álvarez, and to call to account the Nicaraguan regime for such violations, in line with our recommendations?
Context
Three all-party parliamentary groups, including that on international freedom of religion or belief, recently produced an inquiry report detailing widespread human rights violations in Nicaragua.
David Rutley
I very much welcome the report. It was good to meet my hon. Friend and parliamentary neighbour, the respected special envoy on FORB, to review the report—I read it with interest and will respond to the inquiry members shortly. She can be assured that we continue to call out this behaviour—this unacceptable behaviour—by the regime, which does not respect human rights and certainly does not respect freedom of religion or belief.
Session: Nicaragua Freedom of Religion or Belief
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What steps he is taking to support freedom of religion or belief in Nicaragua. The UK is committed to defending this right but faces concerns over its suppression in Nicaragua. He was asked for specific actions being taken by the government.
Context
The UK is concerned about the suppression of human rights in Nicaragua, including freedom of religion or belief.
David Rutley
The UK is committed to defending freedom of religion or belief for all. We share widespread international concern about the suppression of human rights in Nicaragua, including the right to freedom of religion or belief. We continue to call, in bilateral and multilateral settings, for the Nicaraguan Government to respect democracy and all human rights.
Session: Nicaragua Freedom of Religion or Belief
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Would the Minister for development and Africa please update the House on his recent visit to Ethiopia? He was able to witness firsthand the alarming rise of starvation and food shortage, especially at the edge of the most food-insecure area. What efforts is the government making to address this crisis?
Context
The situation in Ethiopia's Tigray region is worsening with increasing food insecurity and starvation. The UK has power to influence the situation.
Andrew Mitchell
I thank my hon. Friend for her question. I was recently in Ethiopia, and was able to visit Tigray and the edge of the most food-insecure area. The situation is as if a football was being kicked at a plate glass window; we have the power to alter its trajectory, but if we do not, it will smash that window. That is why Britain is setting up a pledging conference—working closely with the United Nations—and a contact group on Ethiopia. In the next financial year, we are increasing our bilateral funding very significantly.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Minister for that reply and for his leadership on the excellent White Paper, particularly because, in the run-up to its publication, he clearly listened to calls for more targeted support and humanitarian relief for those who are left behind on account of their religion or belief. The challenge now is to turn those innovative commitments into reality, which will require a revised approach to development programming. Will he meet me and others at a roundtable to discuss that?
Context
The White Paper on international development was published in November 2023, receiving calls for targeted support and humanitarian relief.
Andrew Mitchell
It is always a pleasure to meet my hon. Friend, who has an office next to mine in the Foreign Office. May I thank her for her comments about the publication of the White Paper? The way in which it has been received around the world demonstrates renewed energy and vigour. I hope that it shows Britain's reinvigorated leadership on those important matters, and, of course, value for money for our taxpayers.
Session: International Development White Paper
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What steps his Department is taking to implement the UK's commitments in the White Paper on international development, published in November 2023. I have asked officials in the Foreign Office to work with colleagues across Government to implement the commitments and determine the order of priority.
Context
The White Paper on international development was published in November 2023, containing numerous commitments to be implemented.
Andrew Mitchell
The White Paper includes 217 commitments to be delivered through to 2030. I have asked officials in the Foreign Office to work with colleagues across Government to implement the commitments and determine the order of priority.
Session: International Development White Paper
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There have been months of violence in Manipur, targeting Christians from different ethnicities. A mother cried after four family members were tortured, killed, mutilated, and cut to pieces on 7 November. Hundreds of churches and homes have been burnt down, women sexually abused, and organized mobs attack with impunity using government weapons. International news media find access hard. Will the Church continue to do all it can to draw world's attention to this situation so those responsible are brought to account?
Context
Violence against Christians continues in Manipur, with reports of family members being tortured and killed, homes burnt down, women sexually abused, and organized mobs attacking with impunity using government weapons.
Andrew Selous
The Church of England is in regular contact with the Church of North India to offer support, and it supports Anglicans in the UK who have connections with Manipur. The speaker emphasizes that those suffering are not alone.
Session: Manipur Attacks on Churches and Christian Communities
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The Church of England has taken steps to raise awareness of recent attacks on churches and Christian communities in Manipur. The situation includes ongoing violence targeting Christians, with reports of family members being tortured and killed, homes burnt down, women sexually abused, and organized mobs attacking with impunity using government weapons. International news media face challenges accessing the area.
Context
Recent attacks on churches and Christian communities in Manipur have raised concerns about the safety of religious groups.
Andrew Selous
The Prime Minister's special envoy for freedom of religion or belief has raised the situation in Manipur, Archbishop Justin has spoken about it publicly, and bishops have contacted the Indian high commissioner. The speaker will be visiting the high commissioner to discuss issues in Manipur.
Session: Manipur Attacks on Churches and Christian Communities
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That is indeed a very positive development. My hon. Friend will have seen another report, produced by former BBC reporter David Campanale and other FORB experts for the International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance, which I chair, on the ongoing major violence in Manipur, India. It indicates that since early May alone hundreds of churches there have been destroyed, many burnt to the ground; more than 100 people have been killed and over 50,000 displaced; and schools and seminaries have been targeted in what looks like systematic and premeditated attacks with religion a key factor. There has been very little reporting about this. People there are calling out for help; what can the Church do to draw more attention to their cries?
Context
A report by former BBC reporter David Campanale and other FORB experts indicates that hundreds of churches have been destroyed in Manipur, over 100 people killed, more than 50,000 displaced since early May. There has been very little reporting about this.
Andrew Selous
The matter has been put on the record by my hon. Friend, which is a great service. I hope for much greater reporting of these issues by the BBC and others. The Archbishop of Canterbury remains extremely concerned about worsening attacks and their spread to other minority faith communities in India, so her report will be brought directly to his attention.
Session: Freedom of Religion and Belief
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What recent steps the Church of England has taken to help protect freedom of religion and belief in other countries?
Context
The Church of England has been working on initiatives to protect freedom of religion and belief internationally. A UN resolution based on the Bishop of Truro's review was recently adopted.
Andrew Selous
The United Nations Security Council has recently adopted a resolution to produce an annual report on freedom of religion and belief, sponsored by the UK and the UAE. This resolution is based on the Bishop of Truro's review and incorporates many of his original recommendations.
Session: Freedom of Religion and Belief
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Of the remaining work on the Truro review, recommendation 6 seeks permanent constitution for the freedom of religion or belief special envoy role through a short Bill. Would the Foreign Secretary kindly meet me quickly to progress this?
Context
Recommendation 6 from the Truro review aims to permanently constitute the freedom of religion or belief special envoy role through a short Bill. Time is crucial.
Andrew Mitchell
The whole Government are deeply conscious of my hon. Friend's work as an envoy, and we will answer her question as speedily as possible—I hope later today.
Session: Topical Questions
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What discussions have taken place to ensure that support is available for ex-pat and United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland missionaries in the regions we are discussing who are isolated and may be in a vulnerable position?
Context
There are missionaries from the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in Nigeria, including some from Strangford constituency. These missionaries may be isolated and vulnerable.
Andrew Selous
I thank the hon. Member for raising this issue, for his continued interest in it and for the magnificent work he does chairing the all-party parliamentary group for international freedom of religion or belief. The Bishop of Guildford was recently in Nigeria, speaking out on behalf of all Christians not just members of the Anglican communion, in Nigeria.
Session: Christians in Nigeria
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What discussions the Church of England has had with the Church of Nigeria on the killing and abduction of Christians in that country? Since the matter was last raised there have been further atrocities against Christians in Nigeria, including 32 Christians killed in an attack by suspected Fulani militants on an IDP camp housing nearly 30,000 people.
Context
The Church of England has been criticized for inadequate attention to the killings and abductions of Christians in Nigeria, as reported by Open Doors. Recent attacks include 32 Christians killed in an IDP camp on Good Friday.
Andrew Selous
Frankly, words are a rather inadequate response to what we have just heard, but we must not tire of raising our voices with Nigeria. As a good friend to Nigeria, I would expect our distress to be heard loudly and clearly. The Foreign Office obviously needs to keep on passing on the message.
Session: Christians in Nigeria
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Almost a year after the expert independent review, which highlighted that there is still much work to be done to fully implement the Truro review, can the Minister point out what progress the FCDO has made in better advocating for those who are persecuted for their religion or belief? Not least, will he confirm that, as our manifesto promised and in accordance with recommendation 6 of the Truro review, the role of Prime Minister's special envoy for freedom of religion or belief will now be established in law?
Context
Almost a year since the expert independent review, there is ongoing work to better advocate for those persecuted for their religious beliefs. The question seeks confirmation on establishing a special envoy role as promised.
Andrew Mitchell
I want to thank my hon. Friend for all her work and commitment in this vital area. Last July we had an international ministerial conference to advance FORB and we always regularly raise cases of concern. On recommendation 6, she makes an extremely good point and the Government are considering it.
Session: Persecuted Christians Bishop of Truro’s Review
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What steps he is taking to implement the recommendations of the Bishop of Truro's review.
Context
The Bishop of Truro's independent review highlighted significant work required for full implementation. This question seeks specific steps taken by the government to address these recommendations.
Andrew Mitchell
We welcome the independent review by the Bishop of Truro and ensure that it is central to our human rights work.
Session: Persecuted Christians Bishop of Truro’s Review
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I was prompted to raise this question by Cheshire East Council. Can the Minister explain, for the benefit of Holmes Chapel residents, why the Middlewich Road-Chester Road junction may require alteration in connection with plans for High Speed 2, bearing in mind that the planned HS2 route is some distance away?
Context
Cheshire East Council has raised concerns about the need to alter the A54 Middlewich Road-Chester Road junction in connection with HS2 plans, despite the planned route being distant from the area.
Richard Holden
I know how strongly my hon. Friend campaigns on behalf of her constituents. The A54 Middlewich Road services an emergency diversion route for the M6. HS2 Ltd and National Highways identified the need for works on the route to mitigate traffic impacts forecast at the Chester Road junction during the construction of HS2, and measures have therefore been developed to improve the junction. A supplementary environmental statement for additional provision 1 to the High Speed Rail (Crewe - Manchester) Bill describes the reasoning behind the inclusion of this junction improvement, and HS2 is in the process of sharing the technical work that supports it with the local highways authority in Chester East.
Session: Traffic Flow Congleton
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What steps his Department is taking to help improve traffic flow in Congleton constituency. Managing the traffic on local roads is a critical issue for residents facing daily challenges due to congestion.
Context
Congleton residents are experiencing issues with traffic congestion, affecting daily life and movement.
Richard Holden
Managing the traffic on local roads is the responsibility of the local traffic authorities—in this case, Cheshire East Council. They are subject to a network management duty which requires them to manage their roads to deliver expeditious movement for all traffic, including pedestrians. A wide range of tools is already available to help them to manage congestion and traffic flow.
Session: Traffic Flow Congleton
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The recent independent review confirmed that more needs to be done before FORB becomes firmly embedded in FCDO work. One area highlighted is better stakeholder engagement, among which the Church is key. Would the Second Church Estates Commissioner join me for a meeting with an FCDO Minister?
Context
A recent independent review highlighted the need for better engagement with stakeholders, including the Church, to embed FORB in FCDO work.
Andrew Selous
I should be delighted, and I would like to bring our bishops who lead in this area and senior officials from Church House to that important meeting.
Session: Persecuted Christians 2019 Report
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The recent independent review on progress has confirmed that there is still much to do to implement Truro in full; will the Minister meet me to discuss taking this forward?
Context
An independent review confirmed that there is still much to do to fully implement the Truro review. The MP seeks a meeting to discuss taking this forward.
Rehman Chishti
I will be delighted to do that—and, as a previous envoy, I appreciate my hon. Friend's brilliant work.
Session: Global Britain
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Does my hon. Friend agree that people may not be aware that freedom of religion or belief is one of the fundamental rights for which people in Ukraine are fighting? In areas of Ukraine such as Luhansk, where pro-Russian separatists have taken areas in the past few years, churches are now required to register to meet. All the Baptist, Seventh-day Adventist, Pentecostal and other Protestant churches have been refused registration, so they meet in a climate of fear.
Context
Concerns have been raised about restrictions on freedom of religion or belief in areas of Ukraine occupied by pro-Russian separatists.
Andrew Selous
My hon. Friend has done the House a great service in putting the matter on the record, because I do not think that it was widely known that in the areas that Russia had previously occupied in Ukraine, freedom of religion had been restricted in such a serious way. I am sure that she agrees with the Archbishop of York, who wrote in The Yorkshire Post on Good Friday that we must all rise up to make sure Putin does not win so that what she is talking about does not continue.
Session: Freedom of Religion and Belief
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To ask the hon. Member for South West Bedfordshire, representing the Church Commissioners, what steps the Church of England is taking to promote the freedom of religion and belief globally.
Context
The Church of England's efforts to promote freedom of religion and belief globally are being questioned.
Andrew Selous
In addition to the involvement that the Church will have with the international ministerial conference on freedom of religion and belief that my hon. Friend is helping to organise in July, we will equip bishops from across the world to respond as effectively as possible to violations of freedom of religion at the Lambeth conference later that month. The Church also continues to work with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on the implementation of the Truro review.
Session: Freedom of Religion and Belief
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Do Ministers agree that hosting the international conference on freedom of religion or belief in July would be an excellent opportunity to showcase how FORB is a priority for the UK Government?
Context
The MP acknowledges the Foreign Secretary's support for an international conference and asks if it would be a good opportunity to showcase how FORB is a priority for the UK Government.
Vicky Ford
I thank my hon. Friend for her outstanding work across the world on the Prime Minister's behalf as his envoy on freedom of religion or belief. She is right to be really concerned about the increasing attacks and the increased severity of attacks on freedom of religion or belief. The conference that the UK is going to lead in July will be enormously important; we will welcome partner countries and stakeholders from all across the world. The Foreign Secretary is very much looking forward to attending it and taking part.
Session: Freedom of Religion or Belief
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What steps she is taking to ensure that freedom of religion or belief remains a key strategic priority for her Department?
Context
The MP wants to ensure that the promotion of freedom of religion or belief remains a strategic priority for her department.
Vicky Ford
Promoting freedom of religion or belief is one of the UK's longest-standing human rights priorities. We are making good progress on implementing the Bishop of Truro's recommendations to support everyone persecuted for their religion or belief. We are looking forward to hosting an international ministerial conference on freedom of religion or belief in July to drive forward international efforts to promote openness and freedom.
Session: Freedom of Religion or Belief
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I thank my hon. Friend for those words and welcome the international opportunities to champion freedom of religion or belief at the ministerial conference in London in July, which I am very proud that the UK is hosting, and at the Lambeth conference. Will my hon. Friend join me in commending the motion of the diocese of Lichfield at the forthcoming General Synod that the Church of England not only prays for the persecuted Church, but that its dioceses offer support to link dioceses in parts of the world where the Church is facing persecution, and that the next Lambeth conference addresses the issues of the persecution of Christians?
Context
Following the initial question about the Church's role in promoting religious freedom, Fiona Bruce asks for specific actions to be taken by churches and synods.
Andrew Selous
I am only sorry that, unusually, our hon. Friend the Member for Lichfield (Michael Fabricant) is not in his place to hear my hon. Friend's praise for his diocese. She is absolutely right that the Church of England's diocesan links around the globe or Anglican Communion enable that practical help to flow to those who are suffering because of their faith while also developing a greater awareness of this horrendous persecution. I also hope that she will engage directly with the bishops from areas of persecution at the Lambeth conference later this year.
Session: Freedom of Religion or Belief
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What steps the Church of England is taking to promote freedom of religion or belief.
Context
The question is about the Church of England's efforts to promote freedom of religion and belief, following Fiona Bruce's appointment as Prime Minister's special envoy for this issue.
Andrew Selous
It gives me very great pleasure, on behalf of the whole of the Church of England, to thank my hon. Friend for her hard work as the Prime Minister's special envoy for freedom of religion or belief, and also to congratulate our mutual friend, David Burrowes, on his appointment as her deputy. The Church looks forward to working with her over the coming months to deliver a successful international ministerial meeting in London in July, which will make a real difference to those who suffer because of their faith or belief.
Session: Freedom of Religion or Belief
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Do Ministers agree that FORB for all is a fundamental strand of the network of liberty that the Foreign Secretary has spoken of recently? Where FORB is violated, we see abuses such as racism, gender inequality, and societies prone to violent extremism. The questioner emphasizes the importance of promoting freedom of religion or belief.
Context
The question arises from the Foreign Secretary's strong personal support for freedom of religion or belief, highlighting its fundamental nature and connection to other freedoms.
Amanda Milling
Promoting freedom of religion or belief for all is one of the UK's long-standing human rights priorities and a key pillar of the integrated review. Where FORB is under attack, other human rights are often threatened too. We used our G7 presidency to defend and advance these fundamental freedoms, and next year's international ministerial conference will play a key role in shaping the network of liberty.
Session: Topical Questions
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If she will make a statement on her departmental responsibilities. The Foreign Secretary has launched several initiatives including a campaign to stop sexual violence in conflicts, British international investment, and visited south-east Asia to deepen economic ties with partners such as Indonesia.
Context
The question follows up on previous statements by the Foreign Secretary and seeks an update on her recent activities.
Amanda Milling
Since the last oral questions the Foreign Secretary has launched a campaign to stop sexual violence in conflicts. Last week she launched the British international investment, which will invest billions in honest and reliable infrastructure and technology in low and middle-income countries. She has visited south-east Asia to deepen our economic, tech and security ties with partners including Indonesia, and yesterday she hosted the first UK-Israel strategic dialogue with her Israel counterpart Yair Lapid in London. Today she is meeting NATO allies in Riga, delivering the message that we must act together to stand up against Russia's malign activity.
Session: Topical Questions
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We know that 2,763 Yazidi women, girls and children are still missing, seven years after they were abducted by Daesh in Iraq. Many were taken as sexual slaves and child soldiers. Will the Minister meet me and members of the all-party parliamentary group for international freedom of religion or belief to review what action the UK can take to support the call to assist those people by members of the International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance this week?
Context
2,763 Yazidi women, girls, and children are still missing seven years after being abducted by Daesh in Iraq. Many were taken as sexual slaves and child soldiers.
Vicky Ford
I thank my hon. Friend for her important question and for all the work she does in this area. This Government and I are committed to freedom of religion or belief and to the protection of women and girls, and I would be happy to discuss with her this issue and the wider issues of concern in this area.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister give us some information on what responses the Foreign Office has received from the Iranian authorities to such representations? The BBC journalists themselves get very little feedback on this issue.
Context
The MP inquires further on the lack of feedback from Iranian authorities regarding previous representations made about the intimidation faced by BBC Persian journalists.
James Cleverly
Sadly, the Iranian authorities have yet to provide any kind of justification for their actions that stand up to scrutiny. Their behaviour is indefensible, and we are confident that our Iranian contacts, including Foreign Minister Zarif, fully understand our concerns and our condemnation of such harassment.
Session: Iran BBC Persian Journalists
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What recent representations have been made to the Iranian authorities on the intimidation of BBC Persian journalists in that country?
Context
The question arises from the reported intimidation of BBC Persian journalists and their families by Iranian authorities, affecting media freedom.
James Cleverly
Attacks against BBC Persian employees and their families are unacceptable. We raise this harassment regularly with the Iranian Government, as well as at the Human Rights Council. We will continue to defend BBC Persian's editorial independence. Concerns were most recently raised in an E3 Foreign Ministers' letter to Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif on 22 September.
Session: Iran BBC Persian Journalists
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When will this half a billion pound infection control fund be released to councils covering constituencies such as Congleton?
Context
The social care winter plan announced a £546 million funding for infection prevention and control.
Helen Whately
The infection control fund is being distributed in two equal instalments, the first of which has already been paid to local authorities. My hon. Friend's local authority, Cheshire East Council, will be receiving £4.7 million in total, so it should already have received £2.35 million to go towards the extra costs for care providers and others in infection prevention and control.
Session: Adult Care Covid-19
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The questioner invites a meeting with colleagues regarding the report on tackling demand from sex buyers who drive the sex slave industry. She requests specific steps being taken to address this issue.
Context
A report entitled “The Limits of Consent” produced by the Conservative Party Human Rights Commission calls for action against sex buyers driving the sex slave industry.
Priti Patel
The hon. Lady's question is welcomed, and I will commit to a meeting regarding her report on tackling demand from sex buyers driving exploitation.
Session: Topical Questions
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My family enjoys quality food bought directly from farms across my constituency, such as Ibbotsons in Sandbach, Glebe Farm in Astbury, Hall Farm shop in Alsager, the Cheshire Egg Co.'s dispenser at Pace's farm and daily fresh Bidlea milk from Twemlow. What more can the Government do to help those and other rural businesses in my constituency to promote their high-quality local produce?
Context
The MP highlights specific farms and products from her constituency that provide quality food.
Victoria Prentis (Minister for Animal Welfare, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries)
My hon. Friend is right to highlight the delicious food—from lovely meat to the famous Cheshire cheese—that is undoubtedly available in her constituency. We are supporting initiatives to promote local produce, including through recent industry-led marketing campaigns. We will always champion our farmers and producers to grow more of our great British food.
Session: Animal Welfare Standards
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What steps are Ministers taking to ensure that families who lose a loved one in the line of duty—such as the family of PC Andrew Harper—receive the support they need?
Context
Fiona Bruce inquires about support measures for the families of police officers, specifically mentioning PC Andrew Harper who was tragically killed last year.
Kit Malthouse, Minister for Policing
My hon. Friend raises an extremely important point. The death of Andrew Harper last year on the very edge of my constituency was a terrible and tragic event. There are already measures in place to assist families in that position, including the police injury benefits scheme and welfare support offered by particular forces and the Police Federation. We will be launching a consultation on the principle and scope of the police covenant to address any gaps that may exist.
Session: Families of Police Officers
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Freedom of Religion and Belief
19 September 2023
Responding: Anne-Marie Trevelyan
Main Concerns
['Fiona Bruce is concerned about the increasing violations of freedom of religion or belief (FORB) across the world, affecting millions of individuals. She highlights that authoritarian regimes and terror groups are persecuting people based on their beliefs, resulting in imprisonment, torture, discrimination, harassment, and even death. Violations range from educational exclusion to job loss, healthcare denial, and justice barriers.']
Specific Asks
["Bruce calls for the UK to be bolder and braver by turning words into actions and implementing practical steps such as appointing a dedicated Foreign Office Minister for FORB issues in the House of Commons. She also advocates for embedding the special envoy role in legislation and presenting a private Member's Bill on October 18."]
Freedom of Religion or Belief: International Conference
28 June 2022
Responding: Vicky Ford
Main Concerns
['Fiona Bruce is deeply concerned about the increasing violations of freedom of religion or belief (FORB) globally, noting that millions are denied their religious rights due to discrimination and persecution. She highlights key exacerbating factors such as authoritarian regimes, terrorist attacks, misuse of technology, and FORB abuses during the COVID pandemic. She cites instances where people lose jobs, education, homes, families, and even their lives over what they believe.']
Specific Asks
['Fiona Bruce calls on the government to ensure that the upcoming international conference leads to increased global action and drives forward efforts to protect and promote FORB for everyone, everywhere. She urges the inclusion of best practices and strategies to prevent violations, enhance protection for women and girls, and foster dialogue between religious communities.']
Covid-19: Freedom of Religion or Belief
26 November 2020
Responding: Nigel Adams
Main Concerns
['The MP highlighted the plight of religious minorities during the covid-19 pandemic, citing increased discrimination, violence, and denial of aid. She mentioned specific cases in Somalia, India, Iraq, Pakistan, China, Sudan, Eritrea, North Korea, and Nigeria, where minority groups faced persecution or were denied essential services. The MP also noted issues such as forced conversion for food distribution and the intensification of religious surveillance under the pretext of tackling the virus.']
Specific Asks
["The MP asked the Government to reflect on recommendation 21 of the Bishop of Truro's report, which highlights the importance of recognising the negative consequences of being 'religion-blind'. She urged the Minister to address international partners about combating disinformation, ensuring access to justice, accountability for attacks on religious communities, and taking into account the needs of religious minorities during emergencies."]
Alcohol Harm
17 March 2020
Responding: Helen Whately
Main Concerns
['The concern is about the long-term harm caused by excessive alcohol consumption in the UK. Fiona Bruce cites statistics such as over 10 million people drinking at levels that increase health risks, more than 80 daily deaths from alcohol-related causes, and over 25% of A&E work being alcohol-related. She mentions the impact on families, with about 200,000 children living with an alcohol-dependent parent. The speaker emphasizes the lack of a current strategy addressing these issues adequately and highlights the need for immediate action despite the ongoing health crisis.']
Specific Asks
['Fiona Bruce asks that the Government produce an up-to-date alcohol harm strategy to address the rising levels of alcohol-related harm, citing recommendations from previous reports. She also urges the Minister to reconsider minimum unit pricing and alcohol labelling regulations to support informed decision-making and reduce excessive drinking.']
Modern Slavery Act 2015 10th Anniversary 2025-03-27
27 March 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
It is an honour to open this debate. I thank the Backbench Business Committee for granting it and thank all right hon. and hon. Members and Friends who supported the application for it. The Modern Sla...
Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief Bill - Third Reading
17 May 2024
Bill Debate
Led by this MP
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 highl...
Backbench Business
02 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The motion recognises the acute security situation in the Western Balkans, supports territorial integrity of Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina, condemns attacks by Serb nationalist militants, Russian ...
Sudan: Government Response
22 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Church Commissioners
22 February 2024
General Debate
Led by this MP
Asked what steps the Church is taking to support Anglican churches in countries listed in the World Watch List 2024 and emphasised the need for strategic thinking, structural change, and additional re...
High Street (Improvement) Bill - Clause 1
26 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment proposes to place a duty on local government to designate and develop an improvement plan for high streets, aiming to reverse their decline by encouraging various stakeholders to collabo...
British Irish Citizenship Rights Act - Second Reading of the Bill
26 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill seeks to allow individuals born in the Republic of Ireland but residing in the United Kingdom to attain UK citizenship without having to pay a naturalisation fee or complete a 'Life in the UK...
Freedom of Religion or Belief Bill - Clause 1
26 January 2024
Bill Debate
Led by this MP
The purpose of the Freedom of Religion or Belief Bill is to place the role and office of Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief on a statutory footing, ensuring that future envoys are not at ...
Loss Before Birth Bill - First clause to make shared parental leave a day-one employment right for partners when the mother dies during childbirth.
26 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill aims to provide bereavement leave for fathers and partners when their child's mother dies during childbirth, ensuring they have the necessary time to grieve and adjust without the burden of f...
Church Commissioners
11 January 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Inquired about recent guidance from Commissioners to secure church buildings against theft, highlighting specific incidents at St John’s Church, Christ Church, and St Andrew’s Church in Harrow East.
Sandbach Cemetery
14 July 2021
The petition addresses concerns that the Sandbach cemetery is nearly full, which will force future burials to take place several miles outside of town unless an extension or alternative provision is m...
View Full Petition -->
8
PMQs Asked
33
Ministerial Questions Asked
76
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
Statements / Bills
1
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+146% above average
This MP:
33
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1464% above average
This MP:
76
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-59% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Fiona Bruce's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.