Topical Questions 2023-06-13

2023-06-13

TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Context
The MP is seeking an update on the Foreign Secretary's recent activities and departmental responsibilities.
If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. We have concluded our successful evacuation operation in Sudan and of course continued to support Ukraine in its fight for freedom. Ministers from the Department have travelled extensively around the world, including my right hon Friend the Development Minister, who overnight returned from the G20 in India.
Since the last oral questions, we have concluded our successful evacuation operation in Sudan and continued to support Ukraine. Ministers travelled extensively around the world, including my right hon Friend who returned from G20 in India. I visited Latin America and Caribbean, chaired Foreign Ministers' meeting of OECD for first time in decades.
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Q2 Direct Answer
Context
The MP is seeking an update on the current political situation in Pakistan and efforts to stabilize it.
Could my right hon Friend please provide an update on the current political situation in Pakistan? When we see political instability and sporadic escalations of violence, it is concerning. We continue to work both directly at political level and through our high commission in the country to seek to de-escalate the tension.
Pakistan remains a close partner with strong bilateral relationship. We see instability and violence as concerning issues. We continue to work directly at political level and through our high commission in Pakistan to de-escalate tension and ensure future elections are not marred by violence.
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Q3 Direct Answer
Catherine West Lab
Hornsey and Friern Barnet
Context
The MP has raised concerns about the safety of individuals from Hong Kong living in the UK, noting fears among the community and lack of action against Chinese Government.
On several occasions, Labour colleagues and I have raised our concerns about the safety of Hongkongers here in the UK. There is still a significant fear felt by the Hong Kong community and a sense that the Chinese Government can act with relative impunity here in the UK. Will the Foreign Secretary commit to work with colleagues across Government to look at this urgently?
My right hon Friend conducted a review of Chinese police stations in the UK and engaged with Chinese Government to ensure they no longer operate. We released a statement last week regarding this issue. Security and safety of people here remains top priority, we will continue to ensure freedom of speech across country.
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Q4 Direct Answer
Context
The MP is asking for an update on the Government's approach to the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.
Could the Minister give us an update on the Government's approach to the dire humanitarian situation in Afghanistan? We continue to work with international partners to limit illegal drugs and migration. We provide lifesaving assistance and ensure 50% of beneficiaries are women and girls, despite attempts by Taliban to prevent support.
We continue to work with international partners to limit illegal drugs and migration from Afghanistan. We provide lifesaving assistance and ensure 50% of beneficiaries are women and girls, despite Taliban attempts to prevent support. We aim to reach target set by Government.
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Q5 Partial Answer
Context
The MP refers to previous correspondence where the Prime Minister assured that the list of veterinary medicines no longer available would be published. However, recent updates from the Ulster Farmers' Union suggest EU is not considering this matter.
May I refer the Foreign Secretary to column 289 of the on 24 May, when I asked the Prime Minister to publish the list of the 1,700 veterinary medicines that will no longer be available in Northern Ireland? He told us all to “take heart” that the extension of the grace period would work that out. However, in correspondence, the Ulster Farmers' Union has said that the EU has told it that veterinary medicines are not up for discussion with the EU.
I think this is an issue for Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. I will look at issue and write to hon Gentleman regarding it.
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This Is An Issue For Another Department
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Q6 Direct Answer
Context
The MP highlights the prevalence of homophobia and criminalization of same-sex activities in many Commonwealth nations, particularly focusing on recent legislation in Uganda.
Thank you, Mr Speaker. The casual homophobia that is still, sadly, too prevalent in our society here in the United Kingdom is put into stark contrast when one considers that 67 countries around the world still criminalise private consensual sexual activities between same-sex couples. Thirty-two of them are Commonwealth countries and, of the 67 countries, 11 still have the death penalty for sexual acts between same-sex couples on their statue books.
The UK is appalled by Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Act, especially the introduction of death penalty. We have expressed strong opposition at all levels with Government of Uganda. Criminalisation threatens minority rights and risks persecution across Uganda.
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Q7 Partial Answer
Kerry McCarthy Lab
Bristol East
Context
The MP refers to a newspaper report suggesting a Ukrainian businessman suspected by FBI of being an FSB asset is living in London and used the Homes for Ukraine scheme to bring his family over.
Has the Foreign Secretary seen the report in the newspaper today that a Ukrainian businessman suspected by FBI of being a Russian FSB asset is living in London and used the Homes for Ukraine scheme to bring his family over to join him? Will there be an official response to that investigation?
I have not had chance to see detail of report. I will ensure Department looks at it. Whether Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office or Home Office, we will investigate that.
Assessment & feedback
Specific details about the report are avoided
I Have Not Had A Chance To See Detail Of Report
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Q8 Partial Answer
Context
The MP asks for commitment on publishing another voluntary national review and attending the UN high level political forum on SDGs.
I welcome that the UK has been a long-standing champion of the sustainable development goals, so may I ask my right hon Friend the Foreign Secretary to commit to publishing another voluntary national review of our progress towards the SDGs, and will he attend the UN high level political forum on SDGs next month?
At least two Ministers will be at forum to represent country. There was a voluntary national review in 2019, conducted by former colleague Rory Stewart who said it is work in progress and we are doing well. On wider SDG point, hope whole House will engage with White Paper which can help inject British leadership.
Assessment & feedback
Commitment to another review not explicitly given
Hope Whole House Will Engage
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Q9 Partial Answer
Context
A community member expressed fear about Chinese state police surveillance and legal repercussions.
I recently met a Hongkonger living in Scotland who told me first hand about the oppressive surveillance his community faces by the Chinese state police. He said they are subject to Chinese law no matter where they are in the world. What steps is the FCDO taking with the Home Office to provide reassurance and allow direct reporting of suppression and oppression?
We work closely with the Home Office. The Security Minister has conducted a review, and I have made clear to the Chinese Government that such activities are unacceptable in the UK. They committed not to continue.
Assessment & feedback
No specific steps for reassurance or direct reporting were mentioned.
They Committed Not To Continue
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Q10 Partial Answer
Context
The Government committed to work closely with Israel on the Iranian threat.
In its 2030 road map for Israel-UK relations, the government committed to working closely with Israel on the Iranian threat. Will this include the proscription of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)?
I have spoken regularly about proscription processes, but we do not routinely speculate on future proscriptions. Our relationship with Israel is key; I met the Israeli Foreign Minister and signed a UK-Israeli bilateral road map on 21 March.
Assessment & feedback
No information on IRGC proscription was provided.
We Do Not Routinely Speculate On Future Proscriptions
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Q11 Partial Answer
Context
Israeli settlements are recognised as illegal, but trade with settlers is not restricted.
The Government acknowledges that Israeli settlements on Palestinian land are illegal. Instead of allowing settlers to benefit from selling goods and products from non-owned land, should we make trade with settlers illegal?
The UK's position on settlements is long-standing. We call on both sides to work towards a two-state solution and continue to prioritise this in our foreign policy.
Assessment & feedback
No stance was given on making trade illegal.
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Q12 Partial Answer
Context
Azerbaijan has been threatening Armenian people since the illegal blockade of the Lachin corridor.
What steps are being taken to bring pressure on both sides to end the humanitarian disaster caused by Azerbaijan's threats and blockade?
We support Euro-Atlantic efforts to facilitate dialogue. We urge our interlocutors in Armenia and Azerbaijan to resume talks, and I look forward to updating my hon. Friend personally.
Assessment & feedback
No specific actions or timelines were provided.
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Q13 Partial Answer
Context
Elections in Türkiye saw irregularities and intimidation, particularly targeting Kurds.
What steps is the Foreign Secretary taking to raise concerns about OSCE's findings on elections, including intimidation of Kurds, with our ally Türkiye?
Our bilateral relationship with Türkiye remains important. It is a NATO ally and key partner in initiatives like the Black Sea grain initiative. We will look into election issues but maintain strong working relations for mutual interests.
Assessment & feedback
No specific actions or timelines were given.
We Will Look Into Election Issues
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Q14 Direct Answer
Wendy Morton Con
Aldridge-Brownhills
Context
Education can empower women and girls, as highlighted in an impact report from Five Talents.
Does my right hon. Friend agree that setting up savings groups to help communities can strengthen resilience sustainably?
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Q15 Partial Answer
Context
The world generates 430 million tonnes of plastic annually, and a global treaty could cut production by 80% by 2040.
What are the UK Government doing to encourage big polluters to sign up and enact provisions for reducing plastic production?
The hon. Lady raises an important issue. The Government are fully engaged through multilateral channels in driving forward the treaty.
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Q16 Partial Answer
Greg Smith Con
Mid Buckinghamshire
Context
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps unveiled a new Mach-15 missile, celebrating in Tehran.
What has my right hon. Friend done to challenge Iran's continued militarisation with such advanced weapons?
We work closely with international colleagues, including E3 and USA, to dissuade Iran from its militaristic presence. We maintain our policy that it should never be a nuclear-weapons state, and we monitor other weapons technology development.
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Q17 Direct Answer
Context
The Windsor framework is a settlement but needs detailed operational guidance, especially for the red and green lanes.
Can I seek an assurance from the Government that they will work closely with Northern Ireland's business community over the detailed operational guidance?
I am pleased to report that we have issued guidance. We will continue to work with businesses as the green lane rolls out between September this year and September next.
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Q18 Partial Answer
Context
Dual nationals in Stoke-on-Trent North are concerned about human rights violations and potential threats if they return to Pakistan.
I am proud to represent many Pakistani-British dual nationals in Stoke-on-Trent North, Kidsgrove and Talke, who are rightly concerned about the human rights violations that are taking place, as well as the threats they fear they will face if they return to see family members in Pakistan. What is the Foreign Office doing to ensure those dual nationals will be protected and prevented from ever being detained?
We have a strong bilateral relationship with Pakistan. We have access at the most senior levels within Government, and we make it absolutely clear that those British nationals are always at the forefront of our minds. Their protection and security is always a priority for the UK Government.
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Specific actions to protect dual nationals were not detailed
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Q19 Partial Answer
Context
Russian actions are causing concern about instability in the western Balkans.
We are all concerned about Russian attempts to destabilise the western Balkans, but does the Secretary of State agree that what is required now is maximum co-ordination and co-operation between ourselves, the United States and the European Union?
The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right. We are urging Kosovo and Serbia to de-escalate and return to dialogue, and I am sure the Foreign Secretary will make that point when he sees the Serbian Prime Minister later today.
Assessment & feedback
Specific agreement on coordination was not confirmed
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Q20 Partial Answer
Context
The breaking of the Nova Kakhovka dam is seen as an act of ecocide.
The blowing of the Nova Kakhovka dam is the biggest act of ecocide in generations. For the record, will my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary confirm again that the UK will leave no stone unturned in holding the Russian regime to account for the damage that has been caused by their war?
My right hon. Friend is right about the huge environmental damage that has been caused by the breaking of the dam. Although I am sure Members are already conscious of this, it is worth reminding the House that incidents such as this and the damage to other civilian infrastructure across Ukraine is happening only because of Russia's war and its illegitimate invasion of Ukraine.
Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment on holding Russia accountable was not made
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Q21 Direct Answer
Hilary Benn Lab
Leeds South
Context
The UN high seas treaty is a landmark for conservation.
The UN high seas treaty is a landmark for conservation. Will the Foreign Secretary assure the House that the Government will look to adopt and ratify it as quickly as possible?
Unless I am advised otherwise, the answer is an emphatic yes.
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Q22 Partial Answer
Context
The Arab League has readmitted Syria back into the organization.
What assessment and representations have the Government made on the decision by the Arab League to readmit the Assad regime of Syria back into the organisation?
I had conversations with my interlocutors, the members of the Arab League, prior to that decision. I expressed the UK's concerns about the speed with which that happened. We continue to liaise closely with them on the issue.
Assessment & feedback
Specific details of assessment and representations were not provided
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Q23 Partial Answer
Nia Griffith Lab
Llanelli
Context
Consistency is crucial to maximise the impact of sanctions on Russia.
Consistency in applying sanctions across Government is crucial to maximise the impact on Russia, and the Secretary of State's leadership in this respect is vital. Is he aware that the Home Office is considering requisitioning a hotel whose multiple shareholders include those who have invested from an address in Russia? Will he raise this matter with Home Office Ministers, to ensure taxpayers' money will not be used to pay dividends to Russia?
That question would probably be aimed more accurately at the Home Office, but I will of course raise it with colleagues across Government.
Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to raising concerns was not given
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Q24 Partial Answer
Context
Canada raised concerns about India's activities abroad, including surveillance of Members of this House.
Last week's revelation from Canada's national security adviser that the republic of India was among the most active sources of foreign interference in that country—along with China, Russia and Iran—is deeply concerning. Does the Minister know whether the Department has taken soundings from our treaty ally and fellow Five Eyes member regarding India's activities abroad, particularly its surveillance of not only Sikh activists but Members of this House in relation to the ongoing detention of my constituent Jagtar Singh Johal?
As the hon. Gentleman knows, I have met his constituent's family, and we continue to raise this case with the Indian authorities. I regularly meet my Canadian counterpart, who has not raised directly with me the specific concerns raised by the hon. Gentleman.
Assessment & feedback
Specific soundings from Canada were not mentioned
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Q25 Direct Answer
Context
A seven-year-old child was abducted by their estranged father from a school in Mike Amesbury's constituency and taken to Saudi Arabia.
Last year seven-year-old Ibrahim was abducted by his estranged father from a school in my constituency. His mother is naturally distraught. Will the Foreign Secretary, or another Minister, meet me to discuss this matter and help to move things forward? Ibrahim was taken to Saudi Arabia.
I will ensure that the hon. Gentleman has access to either a Minister or the most appropriate officials in the consular department.
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Q26 Partial Answer
Context
The people of Glasgow North voted by a large margin to remain in the European Union.
It is nearly seven years since the people of Glasgow North voted by 78% to remain in the European Union. Can the Foreign Secretary give just one example from that whole period of our United Kingdom's diplomatic or international reputation being enhanced as a result of Brexit?
I am sure you will tell me off, Mr Speaker, because I have more than one such example and I know that time is short, but I will keep talking until you do tell me off. Our ability to move quickly in respect of vaccines—[Interruption.] SNP Members may not like it, but nevertheless our ability to move quickly at that time meant that we were one of the first countries in the world to come out of lockdown.
Assessment & feedback
Specific example requested was not provided
Snp Members May Not Like It
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