House of Commons · Westminster Hall
11 October 2022 · 3 other contributors · 10,973 words
Opened by Jim Shannon DUP Strangford
Responding minister: Vicky Ford
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Jim Shannon raised concerns about blasphemy laws and allegations: commonwealth countries in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The MP asks the government to ensure that UK aid to countries like Pakistan is contingent on improvements in religious freedom, including amending laws to include a reference to intent before someone can be convicted of blasphemy. He also calls for more focus on human rights conditions and equal treatment of all religions and beliefs under the law when trading or giving aid.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The MP is concerned about the misuse of blasphemy laws in Commonwealth countries, which are used to restrict freedom of speech, discredit political opponents, and target religious minorities. He cites examples from Pakistan and Nigeria where individuals have faced severe repercussions or even death for alleged blasphemy. The lack of protection for those falsely accused and the prevalence of extrajudicial violence further exacerbate these issues.
Mr. Brendan O'Hara expressed concern over the existence of blasphemy laws in 79 countries across the world, with 26 being members of the Commonwealth. He highlighted cases such as Deborah Samuel's murder in Nigeria due to accusations of blasphemy and the imprisonment of Mubarak Bala for the same reason. Mr. O'Hara also mentioned the case of Tahir Naseem, an American citizen murdered while on trial in Pakistan under blasphemy laws. He emphasised that these laws are not only used by judicial systems but also incite vigilante violence, creating a climate of impunity. He inquired if the Government has advocated on behalf of Mubarak Bala directly to the Nigerian Government and asked for information about when the last communication with Nigeria regarding Mubarak's case occurred.
Hamilton thanked the hon. Member for Strangford and the hon. Member for Congleton, praising their work on freedom of religion and belief. He pointed out that 79 countries in the world have laws banning blasphemy, with 26 being Commonwealth states. He highlighted the misuse of blasphemy laws in Pakistan and Nigeria, urging the UK to put diplomatic pressure on such countries. Hamilton also mentioned a case from Morocco where religious tolerance was evident.
Ms Fiona Bruce expressed deep concern about the use of blasphemy laws in Commonwealth countries, particularly Nigeria and Pakistan. She highlighted specific cases where individuals were sentenced to death or imprisonment under these laws, including Yahaya Sharif-Aminu's sentence overturned but still at risk, and the tragic case of Deborah Samuel Yakubu who was burned alive after being accused of blasphemy. Ms Bruce also mentioned a study by Monash University which identified 12 countries where sharia law is used to prescribe death penalties for religious offences.
Government Response
Vicky FordThe UK Government expresses deep concern over the use of blasphemy laws, which undermine freedom of religion or belief and expression. Diplomatic pressure is applied regularly to countries misusing these laws through private lobbying when it is most effective. The Government opposes the death penalty in all circumstances and challenges those not meeting their obligations. Specific attention was given to Pakistan and Nigeria: condemning forced marriage and conversion of women, urging respect for fundamental rights regardless of belief, and raising individual cases like Tahir Naseem and Mubarak Bala with respective authorities. The Minister highlighted three pieces of work including collaboration with international partners, active engagement with multilateral organizations, and integrating diplomacy and development efforts to bring about legislative changes in blasphemy laws.