Key Facts

• The amendment adjusts the Bill’s short title to “Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief Act 2024”.
• A new clause is introduced to replace clauses 1 and 2, detailing the appointment, functions, and responsibilities of the special envoy.
• The special envoy will work with UK government bodies, other governments' representatives, and external organizations.
• Fiona Bruce is speaking on behalf of the International Freedom of Religion or Belief Bill.
• The Bill seeks to put the role of Prime Minister’s special envoy for freedom of religion or belief on a statutory footing.
• There are over 174 members supporting this all-party parliamentary group for international FORB.
• The Prime Minister's special envoy must report directly to the Prime Minister.
• It is almost unprecedented for the Prime Minister to be referenced in legislation.
• The office of the Prime Minister’s special envoy should continue to be staffed by at least a private secretary and an assistant private secretary.
• Baroness Berridge approached Jim Shannon back in 2012 to start an All-Party Parliamentary Group on freedom of religion or belief.
• The APPG has grown from about 25-30 MPs to involve 174 Members of the House of Commons and Lords.
• In Pakistan, there are groups being persecuted including Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and Hindus.
• In Nigeria, approximately 5,000 Christians were murdered in the past year with five times more abductions than even in 2020.
• The hon. Lady slept in a tent to secure her place in proposing the Bill.
• The Bill has gained unanimous support despite changes to its substantive clauses.
• The UK aims to be a champion of freedom, including religion, speech, and worship.
• Clause 1 requires the Prime Minister to appoint a special envoy with specific duties.
• Clause 2 mandates the establishment of an office for the special envoy.
• New clause ensures the role continues as 'Prime Minister’s Special Envoy' with delegated administrative support.
• The special envoy role is being put into statute as a manifesto commitment.
• Millions of women and girls worldwide experience discrimination, inequality, and violence due to both their religion or belief and gender.
• Open Doors world watch list states that about 360 million Christians are at risk of discrimination or persecution globally.
• The Pew Forum reports that religious groups faced harassment by governments in 183 countries, reaching a new peak globally.
• Fiona Bruce visited over 20 towns across the UK as part of a roadshow with her deputy envoy.
• The special envoy is appointed by a Minister of the Crown.
• The envoy promotes freedom of religion or belief abroad and raises awareness of persecution or discrimination cases.
• A report about the envoy’s work must be given to the Prime Minister from time to time.