Mr Stafford expressed concern over the persecution of Christians worldwide, citing examples from Pakistan and China. He highlighted cases like Maira Shahbaz in Pakistan and the suppression of Christianity by the Chinese Communist Party. Mr Stafford urged the Government to keep up pressure on Pakistan for justice and to work with the Vatican and PRC to legalise Catholic churches.

The MP highlighted the importance of religious freedom and paid tribute to Mervyn Thomas, former chief executive of Christian Solidarity Worldwide. He discussed a human shield formed by Christians in Egypt's Tahrir Square during 2011 protests as an example of interfaith respect. The MP also addressed the need for speedy implementation of recommendations from the Bishop of Truro's report on religious freedom and urged the Government to appoint a new special envoy, suggesting Jim Shannon as a suitable candidate. He reported cases of persecution against Christians in Uttar Pradesh, India, including 60 incidents in 2019 and 45 by September 2020 despite lockdown measures.

Paid tribute to the Member for Gillingham and Rainham for his work as Prime Minister's special envoy for freedom of religion or belief. Highlighted recommendation 7 from Bishop of Truro's report, focusing on early warning monitoring and genocide determination. Asked the Minister to consider an amendment to the Trade Bill regarding the persecution of Christians and freedom of religion or belief.

Mr Khan emphasised the importance of freedom of thought and belief, noting that Christians face severe persecution worldwide. He cited estimates suggesting that one third of the global population experiences religious persecution, with Christians being the most targeted group. He highlighted the link between religious exclusion and extremism in Pakistan and described how state-sponsored media is used to incite hatred against Christians in countries like Iran and Turkey. Mr Khan argued for a global Britain that champions pluralism, tolerance, diversity, and individual liberties.

Congratulates the hon. Member for securing the debate and declares an interest as chair of relevant all-party parliamentary groups. Highlights the importance of the office of special envoy for freedom of religion or belief, urging its appointment by the Prime Minister. Emphasises the need to implement recommendations from the Bishop of Truro's review, particularly regarding FCDO staff training and incorporating civil society evidence in report writing. Expresses concern over religious minorities such as Baha'is, Shias, Hindus, Armenians, Rohingyas, Jews, Jehovah's Witnesses, Ahmadis, Muslims, and Coptic Christians facing persecution in countries like Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, and Egypt. Raises the issue of China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims, Tibetan Buddhists, and Christians, including forced organ harvesting.

Thanked the hon. Member for Gillingham and Rainham for his work on freedom of religious belief and highlighted the importance of protecting religious freedoms in Nigeria, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr Doughty expressed disappointment over the resignation of the hon. Member for Gillingham and Rainham as Prime Minister's special envoy without a replacement appointed, highlighting instances of persecution against Christians globally, especially in Nigeria with 50,000 Christians fleeing violence and arbitrary arrests of Christian figures like Professor Solomon Musa Tarfa and Mubarak Bala. He also mentioned the persecution of religious minorities in Myanmar, Iran, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, China, and Xinjiang.

Ms Owatemi expressed concern about the human rights abuses faced by Christians globally, particularly in countries like Thailand, China, and India. She highlighted that during the pandemic, Christians have been denied access to health assistance, which is unacceptable. She also asked for an update on when the Government will implement the remaining recommendations of the Bishop of Truro's review and requested support for persecuted Christians who are denied food aid or PPE in Bangladesh, India, and the Gulf.