House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Alleged Serious and Significant Offences (Diplomatic Immunity): 2023
14 November 2024 · Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
Proposed by Catherine West Lab Hornsey and Friern Barnet
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has identified nine serious and significant offences allegedly committed by individuals with diplomatic or international organisation-related immunity in the UK.
- The FCDO requests relevant foreign governments or international organisations to waive immunity for further investigation into these offences.
- For the most serious offences, the FCDO may request immediate withdrawal of diplomats or dependants if a waiver is not granted.
Issue summary
The statement addresses nine serious and significant offences allegedly committed by individuals with diplomatic or international organisation-related immunity in the UK.
Action requested
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office requests relevant foreign governments or international organisations to waive immunity for further investigation and may request immediate withdrawal of diplomats or dependants for the most serious offences if a waiver is not granted. Figures from previous years are available in HCWS1028.
Key facts
- Nine serious and significant offences were reported by UK law enforcement agencies in 2023.
- Around 26,500 people are entitled to diplomatic or international organisation-related immunity in the UK.
- The FCDO expects those with immunity to obey the law under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961 and related legislation.