Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the closure of (a) 298 nutrition centres and (b) 420 health facilities on humanitarian conditions in Afghanistan in 2025.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We remain gravely concerned about the declining health and nutrition status of the most vulnerable Afghans. We are monitoring the impact of the closures of health and nutrition facilities on the most vulnerable, particularly women and children, and estimate that services for more than 3 million people are impacted. We continue to urge the Taliban to reverse their deadly ban on girls and women receiving medical education. We have adapted our support to provide more flexible funding to help sustain essential and lifesaving health and malnutrition treatment and prevention services. We are working with other donors, including the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, to safeguard health system capacity including routine immunisations for children and disease surveillance systems. We are convening key partners and donors to strengthen our collective approach to tackling food insecurity and malnutrition in Afghanistan.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had discussions with his Moroccan counterpart on ending the military occupation of Western Sahara.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Following discussions with Moroccan Foreign Minister Bourita, the Foreign Secretary endorsed Morocco's autonomy proposal as the most credible, viable and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution of the Western Sahara conflict on 1 June. In that context, we continue to support the UN-led process to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution, based on compromise, which conforms with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including the principle of respect for self-determination. We welcome Morocco's stated commitment to further detail and willingness to engage in good faith with all relevant parties, to expand on details of what autonomy within the Moroccan State could entail for the region, with a view to restarting serious negotiations on terms acceptable to the parties.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will take steps with Polisario to improve security in Western Sahara not occupied by Morocco.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Senior UK officials meet regularly with Sahrawi representatives, and we continue to encourage constructive engagement with the political process with a view to improving security in the region. In addition, Ministers and officials frequently discuss Western Sahara with international stakeholders and partners.

On 1 June, the Foreign Secretary endorsed Morocco's autonomy proposal as the most credible, viable and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution of the Western Sahara conflict. In that context, we continue to support the UN-led process to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution, based on compromise, which conforms with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including the principle of respect for self-determination.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to help uphold human rights in Kenya.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Over the past two weeks, in addition to regular engagement with Government of Kenya at all levels, we have issued three statements, on 11th, 18th and 24th June expressing concern at Kenyan police brutality and in support of fundamental freedoms, including a British High Commission Nairobi released joint statement reaffirming every Kenyan's right to peaceful protest, and the importance of preserving civic space, and called for swift, transparent and independent investigations into all instances of violence against protestors. The UK's development funding supports police reform, focusing on human rights compliant policing and accountability. We are committed to maintaining a constructive dialogue with the Government of Kenya which will enable us to pursue shared interests, support Kenya's most vulnerable people, deepen our strong people-to-people links and raise challenging issues such as human rights.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will ensure that Polisario is consulted on investment in Western Sahara by the Morocco Business Alliance.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

On 1 June, the Foreign Secretary endorsed Morocco's autonomy proposal as the most credible, viable and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution of the Western Sahara conflict. In that context, we continue to support the UN-led process to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution, based on compromise, which conforms with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including the principle of respect for self-determination.

In the UK-Morocco joint communiqué, the UK welcomed Morocco's willingness to engage in good faith with all relevant parties. We have agreed to work together with Morocco to unlock new investment opportunities and have committed to establishing a Morocco Business Alliance, driven by the private sector.

Senior UK officials meet regularly with Sahrawi representatives to discuss UK policy on Western Sahara, including trade. It is for companies to take their own decisions on whether to do business in Western Sahara, as elsewhere.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had discussions with his Syrian counterpart on the murder of Mahmood Ghassa; and what steps he is taking to support the protection of religious minorities in Syria.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK is engaging privately and regularly with the Syrian government at every level. We have consistently advocated for an inclusive political transition and underlined the importance of protecting the rights of all Syrians. I raised this with Syrian Foreign Minister Al Shaibani when we met in March and pressed the Syrian Government to take concrete action following the horrific violence committed against the Alawite community. The UK Special Representative for Syria visited Damascus last week to discuss developments.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment he has made of the challenges girls and young women in north-east Nigeria face who (a) have escaped Boko Haram captivity and (b) according to recent reports experience (i) unlawful detention and (ii) inadequate support from (A) the military and (B) government authorities following their escape.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

In North East Nigeria, women and girls face severe challenges due to gender-based vulnerabilities, including heightened risks of sexual violence such as rape, exploitation, and forced marriage. Boko Haram has frequently abducted women and girls for sexual slavery. Conflict-driven displacement further increases these dangers. We welcomed Nigeria's endorsement of both the Call to Action and the Murad Code as crucial steps for greater practical action to tackle Conflict Related Sexual Violence (CRSV). We continue to urge Nigeria to ensure the detention of all children, including those linked to armed groups, aligns with international juvenile standards. The UK also calls for urgent action to protect those at risk of conflict-related sexual violence, particularly in displacement camps. Through the Integrated Security Fund, the UK supports efforts to protect and empower women and girls in the region. This includes deploying senior policing experts to work with Borno State Police, enhancing investigations into sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and improving forensic evidence collection.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he is taking to help ensure that (a) pregnant women and (b) young children have access to (i) malnutrition treatment and (ii) health services in Afghanistan.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We are gravely concerned about the health and nutrition situation in Afghanistan. Access to essential and nutrition services for pregnant and breastfeeding women and children is limited especially for those in rural areas and is exacerbated by Taliban restrictions on women's movement requiring male chaperones. We continue to urge the Taliban to reverse restrictions on women and girls and improve access to essential services. We have adapted our support to provide more flexible funding to help sustain essential and lifesaving health and malnutrition treatment and prevention services, including for reproductive, maternal and newborn services. We are working with other donors, including the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, to protect health system capacity including routine immunisations for children and reproductive and maternal services for pregnant women. We are convening key partners and donors to strengthen our collective approach to tackling food insecurity and malnutrition in Afghanistan.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has made an assessment of the potential merits of increasing the level of humanitarian funding to Afghanistan in response to warnings by the World Food Programme that it can only reach 10% of food-insecure Afghans.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK is taking a leading role to support the people of Afghanistan. The UK remains one of the most generous donors to the humanitarian response and we continue to engage with the UN and other donors to sustain support for aid organisations in country.

Last financial year we provided £171 million to support Afghans affected by the ongoing crisis. This included £65 million to the World Food Programme who remain one of our primary partners in country. We continue to monitor the situation closely and expect to continue to be a key donor to the humanitarian response in Afghanistan going forward.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he is taking steps to help facilitate safe passage to Jordan for refugees fleeing Gaza.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Government has been clear that civilians in Gaza must be protected, and that Palestinians should not be forced to relocate from Gaza to third countries. Jordan is a generous host to several million refugees from regional conflicts, and entry of refugees from Gaza into Jordan is a matter for the Government of Jordan. We continue to call on all parties in Gaza to protect civilians and urge the Government of Israel to enable life-saving aid to enter Gaza at scale, and to enable the seriously ill and wounded to leave Gaza for medical care.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to raise concerns about the treatment of (a) Christians and (b) other religious minorities in Burkina Faso at the United Nations.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK strongly condemns reports of attacks on religious minorities in Burkina Faso and has consistently called on all actors in Burkina Faso to respect human rights and adhere to international humanitarian law, which covers the persecution of Christians and other religious minorities. For example, at the April 2025 Security Council briefing on the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel, the UK expressed concern at the human rights abuses committed in the Sahel and called on the UN to lead the way in emphasising the importance of international humanitarian law.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he had discussions with his Moroccan counterpart during the formulation of the UK-Morocco Joint Communiqué on whether Morocco’s willingness to engage in discussions in good faith extends to dialogue without restrictions.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

On 1 June, the Foreign Secretary co-chaired the 5th session of the UK-Morocco Strategic Dialogue in Rabat with Minister Nasser Bourita. Discussions were wide-ranging and constructive, reflecting the strong bilateral relationship and shared commitment to a strengthened strategic partnership.

The Foreign Secretary endorsed Morocco's autonomy proposal as the most credible, viable and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution of the Western Sahara conflict. In that context, we continue to support the UN-led process to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution, based on compromise, which conforms with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including the principle of respect for self-determination.

The Joint Communique expresses our shared conviction to renew efforts to support the UN Personal Envoy of the Secretary General for Western Sahara in the search for a solution to the Western Sahara conflict, underlining that the only viable and durable solution will be one that is mutually acceptable to the relevant parties, and is arrived at through compromise. We welcome Morocco's stated commitment to further detail and willingness to engage in good faith with all relevant parties, to expand on details of what autonomy within the Moroccan State could entail for the region, with a view to restarting serious negotiations on terms acceptable to the parties.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 23 June 2025 to Question 58603 on Occupied Territories: Arms Trade, whether he has had discussions with his Israeli counterparts on (a) the use of military equipment supplied before the suspension of certain export licences and (b) that equipment supplied by remaining export licences must not be re-assigned to support military operations in (i) Gaza and (ii) the West Bank.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I regularly engage with my Israeli counterparts on a range of issues including the Israeli Defence Forces' (IDF) conduct in Gaza. We continue to urge that any Israeli actions must be in line with International Law. Subject to the specific measures taken to protect the global F-35 programme, we are clear there are no export licences currently being used by the IDF in military operations in Gaza or the West Bank.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if the Government will take steps to recognise the state of Palestine as part of its efforts to seek (a) peace and (b) a lasting two state solution in the region.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK commitment to a two-state solution is unwavering. We are committed to recognising a Palestinian state at a time that has the most impact in achieving this reality and is most conducive to long-term prospects for peace. We are clear that does not need to be at the end of a process. UK bilateral recognition is the single most important action the UK can take with regard to Palestinian statehood. That is why it is important to get the timing right so that it creates genuine momentum and is not simply a symbolic gesture. We are continuing to engage all partners on advancing a two-state solution and supporting the foundations of Palestinian statehood.

Palestinian statehood is the right of the Palestinian people. It is not in the gift of any neighbour and is also essential to the long-term security of Israel. The people of the West Bank and Gaza must be given the political perspective of a credible route to a Palestinian state and a new future. That is why this Government supports a two-state solution that guarantees security and stability for both the Israeli and Palestinian people. The Government agrees strongly on the importance of recognition, and that is why we will make sure the timing is right. We are committed to recognising a Palestinian state at a time that has the most impact in achieving this reality and is most conducive to long-term prospects for peace.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of UK aid spent on supporting Christian communities facing violence or persecution in central and northern regions of Nigeria.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK's humanitarian support in Nigeria focuses on supporting the most vulnerable, including people and communities affected and displaced by violence and conflict. Through our Humanitarian and Resilience Programme (HARP), we have reached approximately 1 million people, increasing resilience for people with the most severe humanitarian needs in North East Nigeria. Additionally, through our Strengthening Peace and Resilience programme (SPRiNG) the UK is providing funding to help tackle the root causes of intercommunal conflict, including security, justice, and natural resource management challenges. Whilst SPRiNG is still in the early phases of implementation, its partnership with the Institute For Integrated Transitions (IFIT) has achieved some encouraging results. Mediation efforts in Nasawara State have fostered a negotiated agreement between the Bassa and Egbura People, enabling the return and resettlement of 5000 internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of making aid available to Christian communities facing violence or persecution in central and northern Nigeria.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK's humanitarian support in Nigeria focuses on supporting the most vulnerable, including people and communities affected and displaced by violence and conflict. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's Humanitarian and Resilience Programme (HARP) in Nigeria has reached approximately 1 million people, increasing resilience for people with the most severe humanitarian needs in North East Nigeria, in line with the UN Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan. Additionally, the UK's Strengthening Peace and Resilience programme ('SPRING') is working to reduce rural violence in northwest and north-central Nigeria, including supporting collaboration and productive livelihoods for both farmers and pastoralists.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the threats facing religious personnel in Khartoum and surrounding regions, following the reported killing of a Catholic priest; and what representations they have made to call for an urgent ceasefire, the protection of clergy, and unhindered humanitarian access in that region.

Answered by Lord Collins of Highbury - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK strongly condemns the reported killing of Catholic priest, Father Luka Jomo, in El Fasher, North Darfur, and also condemns the reported bombing of churches which killed and injured multiple people. We will continue to recognise the issue of Christian persecution globally, alongside the persecution of other individuals on the basis of their religion or belief. Our Special Envoy for freedom of religion or belief, David Smith, made a statement at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on 4 March, highlighting our concerns regarding the coercion of non-Muslims in Sudan to change their beliefs through denial of work, food aid, and education. On 15 April, following the London Sudan Conference, the co-chairs' statement called on relevant parties to enact an immediate ceasefire, and allow and facilitate rapid, safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to all areas of need through all necessary routes in adherence with their obligations under international humanitarian law. On 27 June, during an open briefing at the UN Security Council, the UK echoed the UN's calls for humanitarian pauses in Sudan, emphasising the need for aid to reach those most in need.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had discussions with his Moroccan counterpart on ensuring human rights for the Sahrawi people.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK remains committed to the promotion and protection of human rights globally, including in Morocco and Western Sahara. Officials, including up to Ambassador level regularly engage on these issues with the Moroccan Government and authorities accordingly.

In the UK-Morocco joint communiqué, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation on human rights, our support for the principle of respect for self-determination and the intention to hold a third session of the UK-Morocco Human Rights dialogue before the end of 2025. It also expressed our shared conviction to renew efforts to support the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General in the search for a solution to the Western Sahara conflict, underlining that the only viable and durable solution will be one that is mutually acceptable to the relevant parties, and is arrived at through compromise. We welcome Morocco's stated commitment to further detail and willingness to engage in good faith with all relevant parties, to expand on details of what autonomy within the Moroccan State could entail for the region, with a view to restarting serious negotiations on terms acceptable to the parties.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment he has made of the potential impact of (a) reports on the demolition of Ahmadiyya worship places, (b) the role of (i) Tehreek-e-Labbaik and (ii) extremist groups in Pakistan and (c) the response of Pakistani state authorities on freedom of (A) religion and (B) belief in that country.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We are deeply concerned by the desecration of Ahmadi mosques in Pakistan and continue to monitor the situation. Our High Commission in Islamabad regularly raises this issue with the Government of Pakistan at the highest levels. I raised the deteriorating situation for Ahmadi Muslims, including the impact of extremist groups such as Tehreek-e-Labbaik, with Pakistan's Minister of State for Interior in March 2025. In June 2025, ahead of Eid al-Adha, I also raised the safety and dignity of Ahmadis seeking to practice their faith with Pakistan's Human Rights Minister. We will continue to urge the Government of Pakistan to guarantee the rights of all people in accordance with international standards.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had discussions with his Egyptian counterpart on the seizure of St. Catherine’s Monastery.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK Government recognises St Catherine's Monastery's historical and religious importance and tracks this long-standing land ownership dispute. Our Embassy in Cairo participated in discussions with the Egyptian Government on this issue on 30 May. We will continue to engage on issues of heritage protection and religious freedoms.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what funding requests his Department has received from the Government of Mauritius to support the establishment of a marine protected area in accordance with Article 5 of the UK-Mauritius Treaty.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

UK support for the establishment of a marine protected area (MPA) around the Chagos Archipelago is being discussed with Mauritius as part of the implementation of the Treaty. The UK will not be making any additional direct payments to Mauritius as part of this activity.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with his counterparts in the F-35 programme partner nations on Israel’s (a) compliance with international humanitarian law and (b) use of F-35 fighter jets in Gaza.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Conversations with F-35 Partners occur regularly and cover a range of issues, however we are unable to disclose details of confidential conversations held within an international programme.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had discussions with his Moroccan counterpart on the potential impact of draining the aquifer under Dhakla, Western Sahara on the production by Moroccan companies of produce for export.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

No such discussions have taken place. It is for companies to take their own decisions on whether to do business in Western Sahara, as elsewhere.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made to the Taliban on the treatment of (a) LGBT+ people, (b) women and girls and (c) people from ethnic Hazara communities.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Ministers do not engage with the Taliban, but Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office officials regularly press the Taliban to respect the human rights of all Afghans, most recently in June. The Government is working with international partners to maintain collective pressure on the Taliban to reverse their inhuman restrictions. We continue to support the UN Special Rapporteur and his mandate to document human rights abuses in Afghanistan. Upholding human rights and gender equality is not only a moral imperative but also essential for building a stable, inclusive and prosperous country for all Afghans.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made to his Iranian counterpart on the (a) recent airstrike on Evin Prison in Tehran and (b) detention of (i) Christians and (ii) other religious minorities; and what diplomatic steps he is taking to (A) help uphold freedom of religion or belief and (B) advocate for prisoners of conscience in that country.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary consistently called for de-escalation throughout the 12-day conflict. We continue raise Iran's repression of freedom of religion or belief, including against Christians, in multilateral fora. On 18 March, the UK's Permanent Representative to the UN highlighted the continued systematic targeting and repression of religious minorities at the UN Human Rights Council. On 3 April, we were integral to the delivery of a new Human Rights Council resolution, which renewed and expanded the mandate of the Fact-Finding Mission on Iran, to investigate a broader range of abuses including against religious minorities, in an important step towards accountability.

On 3 July, the UK Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, David Smith MP, met the Baha'i International Community UN Representative, Simin Fahandej, to discuss the current situation faced by Baha'is in Iran. We continue to monitor the ongoing harassment and arbitrary detention of Christians in Iran, and in November 2024, called on the Iranian government to release religious practitioners imprisoned for their membership in or activities on behalf of a minority religious group at the UN Third Committee.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, when he plans to answer Question 61737, tabled on 23 June 2025.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I apologise for the delay in responding to the hon. Member's question. I issued a response to the hon. Member on 3 July.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what diplomatic steps his Department is taking to tackle the persecution of Ahmadi Muslims in (a) Pakistan and (b) other countries; and what discussions he has had with his counterpart in Pakistan on human rights for Ahmadi Muslims.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Promoting freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) is a core part of the UK's diplomatic engagement overseas. In March 2025, I raised the rights of Ahmadi Muslims in a meeting with Pakistan's Minister of State for Interior. In June 2025, ahead of Eid al-Adha, I also raised the safety and dignity of Ahmadis seeking to practice their faith with Pakistan's Human Rights Minister. Working with the Special Envoy for FoRB, David Smith MP, we continue to champion the right to FoRB around the world - promoting tolerance and mutual respect through our engagement in multilateral organisations, our bilateral work, and our programme funding.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will bring forward legislative proposals to ban financial donations by UK citizens to the war efforts of other countries.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

As the Charity Commission has made clear, providing aid or military supplies to any foreign armed force is not a charitable purpose, and no charity can legally undertake such activity.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the Written Statement of 17 June 2025 on Afghanistan HCWS703, if he will publish a list of people he is referring to when stating that his Department speaks "directly with Afghans and civil society to inform our policy and programming".

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

To maintain the privacy and security of the people with whom we engage, including those based in Afghanistan, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office will not be publishing a list of Afghan and civil society contacts. Ministers and officials will continue to engage regularly with a diverse range of Afghans and civil society contacts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made to (a) the UN and (b) other international bodies on the need for protection of civilians during the Sudan conflict.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We continue to engage actively with the UN and other international actors to push for the protection of civilians in Sudan. On 15 April, the Foreign Secretary hosted the London Sudan conference alongside the African Union (AU) and the EU, as well as France and Germany as co-chairs. There was a broad agreement among participants about the responsibility of parties to the conflict to protect civilians and uphold their obligations under international law and this was reflected in the co-chairs statement which followed the conference. More recently the UK attended the meeting of the Consultative Group on Sudan in Brussels on 26 June and contributed to discussions with the UN Secretary General's Personal Envoy on Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, on his plans to convene proximity talks with the warring parties, including on protection issues. Earlier this year in February, the Minister for Africa spoke with the AU's Special Envoy for the Prevention of Genocide and Atrocities where he highlighted the credible evidence of human rights abuses and violations in Sudan and pressed the AU to continue to draw attention to atrocities in Sudan.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made to the warring parties in Sudan about the protection of civilians.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

As part of our diplomatic and political efforts to achieve peace in Sudan, we continue to engage with the warring parties. Senior officials, including the UK Special Representative for Sudan, have travelled to Port Sudan on several occasions in 2025 for talks with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). On 9 April, ahead of the Sudan Conference, the Minister for Africa spoke with Babikir Elamin, Sudanese Chargé d'Affaires in London, and pressed him specifically on humanitarian access to ensure aid can reach those most in need. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office officials have also spoken with representatives from the Rapid Support Forces on different occasions since the start of the conflict in Sudan in 2023. We have used these exchanges to request that their leadership make every effort to protect civilians.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made to his Nigerian counterpart following the killing of up to 200 internally displaced Christians in Yelewata, Benue State.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

While the UK Government has not yet discussed the violent attacks on 13 June, UK officials have been actively engaging on broader security issues in Benue State. On 10 June, UK officials met Mr. Dickson Tarkighir, Member of the House of Representatives for Makurdi/Guma in Benue State and Chair of the House Committee on Constituency Outreach to discuss the root causes of insecurity in the region. The UK also maintains regular dialogue with key Nigerian institutions, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), and the Office of Strategic Preparedness and Resilience (OSPRE) to address conflict in Nigeria's middle belt. During his visit to Nigeria between 28-30 May, the Minister for Africa raised Freedom of Religion and Belief and the root causes of insecurity in discussions with Nigerian counterparts, including the Foreign Minister and Deputy Speaker.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will make it his policy to tie the provision of UK aid to Pakistan to the Pakistani authorities' cooperation on the (a) deportation of Pakistani criminals in the UK and (b) return of criminal suspects charged in the UK who are residing in Pakistan.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK has transitioned from a traditional aid relationship with Pakistan to a mutually beneficial partnership which underpins UK national interests, and we have regular constructive discussions with Pakistani authorities on a range of topics of vital mutual interest, including criminal justice. None of the UK's Official Development Assistance (ODA) spent in Pakistan is dispersed through the Pakistani government, therefore the UK government rules out linking ODA and deportations. Despite significant and complex challenges when seeking to return foreign national offenders, this government is fully committed to making our communities safer by deporting those who break our laws. The Foreign Secretary raised this matter with Pakistan's Prime Minister in May.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he plans to suspend arms export licences to Israel for use in the West Bank.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

One of our first acts in government was to review and suspend export licences that could be used by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) in Gaza, as announced to Parliament. We have successfully implemented that suspension and continue to refuse all relevant licence applications. Subject to the specific measures taken to protect the global F-35 programme, we are clear there are no export licences currently being used by the IDF in military operations in Gaza or the West Bank.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the legal process for recognising a Palestinian state.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK commitment to a two-state solution is unwavering.  We are committed to recognising a Palestinian state at a time that has the most impact in achieving this reality and is most conducive to long-term prospects for peace.  We are clear that does not need to be at the end of a process. UK bilateral recognition is the single most important action the UK can take with regard to Palestinian statehood. That is why it is important to get the timing right so that it creates genuine momentum and is not simply a symbolic gesture. We are continuing to engage all partners on advancing a two-state solution and supporting the foundations of Palestinian statehood.

Palestinian statehood is the right of the Palestinian people. It is not in the gift of any neighbour and is also essential to the long-term security of Israel. The people of the West Bank and Gaza must be given the political perspective of a credible route to a Palestinian state and a new future. That is why this Government supports a two-state solution that guarantees security and stability for both the Israeli and Palestinian people. The Government agrees strongly on the importance of recognition, and that is why we will make sure the timing is right. We are committed to recognising a Palestinian state at a time that has the most impact in achieving this reality and is most conducive to long-term prospects for peace.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent steps she has taken to support accountability for breaches of international law in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We have consistently called on all parties to comply with international law in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs). We have been clear that we respect the independence of the international courts who are currently considering cases concerning international law in the OPTs. The UK participated in the International Court of Justice's Advisory Opinion on Israel's obligations as an Occupying Power and as a member of the United Nations, putting forward strong support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East and the International Committee of the Red Cross. In relation to the conflict in Gaza, we have called for independent investigations into incidents where there are reports of breaches of international humanitarian law and accountability for those found responsible, including at the UN Security Council. In relation to the West Bank, we have a clear position that Israeli settlements in the OPTs are illegal under international law and have taken action to sanction violent settlers and individuals who incite violence against Palestinians.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he is taking to repatriate British citizens in Tel Aviv.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Support to British nationals remains our top priority and we have worked at pace to ensure those who wanted to leave left safely. Consular teams have worked round the clock to support British nationals in the region. As soon as Israeli airspace re-opened UK government charter flights left Israel carrying more than 380 people on six flights. In allocating seats, we prioritised those who were most vulnerable, including those with medical needs, children, and the elderly. Commercial flights are now available.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the Hong Kong National Security Law on British businesses operating in Hong Kong.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK Government has been clear in its opposition to the National Security Law (NSL). China's imposition of the NSL on Hong Kong has seen opposition stifled and dissent criminalised. Alternative voices in Hong Kong's executive, legislature, civil society, and media have been all but extinguished. The UK has called for the National Security Law to be repealed.

The UK Government provides a range of services and advice to support companies doing business in Hong Kong, through our extensive network, both in the UK and at our Consulate-General in Hong Kong. In addition to our digital platforms, such as Great.gov.uk and the Digital Exporting Programme, the Overseas Business Risk (OBR) service provides information on political, economic and security risks when trading overseas. The OBR refers to the NSL under Section 4. Business and human rights.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of anti-conversion laws in India.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK is firmly committed to defending freedom of religion or belief for all, as a fundamental human right. We are aware of concerns regarding anti-conversion laws in India, and their potential impact on religious minorities. Where issues arise, we raise them directly with the Government of India, both at national and state levels. Our diplomatic network across India monitor developments closely.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has raised the religious persecution of Leah Sharibu in bilateral discussions with President Tinubu of Nigeria.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK strongly condemns Leah Sharibu's abduction and has repeatedly called for her release and the release of all those abducted by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa (ISWA). We have raised Leah's case with the Government of Nigeria, and the Minister for Africa will continue to do so in future engagements. More broadly, we continue to engage with the Government of Nigeria to support efforts to tackle insecurity and prevent further kidnappings, which includes support to Nigeria's anti-kidnap cell, through the UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has (a) accepted and (b) implemented all recommendations from the China Audit.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Government will take forward work to deliver each of the actions recommended by the China Audit. These will be delivered as part of the Government's broader strategic approach to China.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of reports that Hong Kong’s last pro-democracy political party has been disbanded; and if he will have discussions with (a) the Chief Executive of Hong Kong and (b) his Chinese counterparts on the role of Hong Kong’s National Security Law on this decision.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The League of Social Democrats (LSD) is a concerning development that further demonstrates how China's imposition of the National Security Law on Hong Kong has stifled opposition and criminalised dissent. Alternative voices in Hong Kong's executive, legislature, civil society, and media have been all but extinguished. The UK has called for the National Security Law to be repealed and for an end to the prosecution of all individuals charged under it, and we regularly raise our concerns with the Chinese government and with Ministers in the Government of Hong Kong.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with Hong Kong officials on the use of arrest warrants against British citizens.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK Government is clear that it will not tolerate any attempts by foreign governments to coerce, intimidate, harass, or harm their critics overseas, especially in the UK. The Government will continue to stand with and support members of the Hong Kong community who have relocated to the UK.

The Foreign Secretary issued a statement on 24 December 2024 condemning the Hong Kong police's latest arrest warrants and calling on Beijing to repeal the National Security Law. UK Ministers have repeatedly raised our opposition to these actions with the Chinese and Hong Kong authorities; most recently, I did so directly with Hong Kong Chief Secretary for Administration on 30 May.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he is taking to support civil society organisations in Venezuela.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Further to my answer given on 15 May 2025 to question 50066, the UK is firmly committed to championing democracy and human rights around the world, including in Venezuela. We remain deeply concerned by the repression of civil society in Venezuela, including the harassment and intimidation of political figures, journalists, and human rights defenders. The UK has repeatedly called for an immediate end to repression and the unconditional release of those arbitrarily detained, most recently through a UK statement at the Human Rights Council on 27 June.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had discussions with his counterparts in the G7 on creating a common investment-ban list for companies credibly implicated in (a) forced labour, (b) genocide and (c) mass surveillance in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The human rights situation in China, including China's persecution of Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim minorities, remains a priority for the government. The UK regularly discusses issues of common concern with likeminded partners, including through the G7.

There are a number of ways in which His Majesty's Government currently tackles the issue of Uyghur forced labour in supply chains. The Overseas Business Risk Guidance makes clear to UK companies the risk of operating in certain regions and urges them to conduct appropriate due diligence when making business decisions.

Last month, this Government launched a review of its approach to ensuring responsible business conduct, focusing on the global supply chains of businesses operating in the UK. This includes a review of alternative measures to tackle forced labour.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

o ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has considered publishing a consolidated UK list of Chinese companies (a) credibly implicated in forced-labour abuses in Xinjiang and (b) linked to the People’s Liberation Army.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The human rights situation in China, including China's persecution of Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim minorities, remains a priority for the government. The UK regularly discusses issues of common concern with likeminded partners, including through the G7.

There are a number of ways in which His Majesty's Government currently tackles the issue of Uyghur forced labour in supply chains. The Overseas Business Risk Guidance makes clear to UK companies the risk of operating in certain regions and urges them to conduct appropriate due diligence when making business decisions.

Last month, this Government launched a review of its approach to ensuring responsible business conduct, focusing on the global supply chains of businesses operating in the UK. This includes a review of alternative measures to tackle forced labour.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether the China Audit made an assessment of the proposal for a new Chinese Embassy.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

No. The determination of the Chinese planning application is an independent process. The decision will be made by Ministers in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government in their quasi-judicial capacity.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Syria and international partners following the attack at Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church on 22 June; what assessment they have made of the implications of this attack for religious freedom in Syria; and what steps they are taking to support accountability and the safeguarding of religious minorities in Syria.

Answered by Lord Collins of Highbury - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK strongly condemns the horrific terrorist attack at Mar Elias Church and remains committed to combatting terrorism. The Minister for the Middle East sent a personal message to Syrian Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani, expressing condolences and the UK's continued support. On 25 June our Special Representative for Syria visited Damascus and discussed the assessment of the situation with the Foreign Minister. We will continue to underline the importance of an inclusive political transition and protection of the rights of all Syrians, as well as advocate for the right to Freedom of Religion or Belief for all.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what recent representations they have made to the government of India regarding the forced deportation of Rohingya refugees.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

We are aware of reports of Rohingya refugees being deported from India to Myanmar. The UK has been at the forefront of international efforts to support Rohingya refugees. We have contributed £406 million to the response in Bangladesh since 2017, and provided over £52 million to supporting the Rohingya and other Muslim minorities in Rakhine state, Myanmar.

The UK is committed to supporting human rights globally. The British High Commission in New Delhi and our diplomatic network across India engage Indian stakeholders on a range of human rights matters, working with Union and State Governments, and with civil society.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Syria to ensure that survivors of Syria’s detention systems have their rights to justice, reparations and access to rehabilitation upheld.

Answered by Lord Collins of Highbury - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK has long condemned the gross human rights violations committed by the Assad regime, including those in Syria's detention systems. We support the Syrian Government in establishing Syrian-led processes, such as the National Commissions on Transitional Justice and Missing Persons. We have urged the Syrian Government to engage collaboratively with civil societies and the UN to ensure these are inclusive, comprehensive and transparent. During the Foreign Secretary's meeting with President al Sharaa in Damascus on 5 July, he raised the importance of accountability and transitional justice for a sustainable political transition, and offered UK support.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what initiatives his Department is funding to (a) monitor and (b) support the (i) registration and (ii) legal recognition of religious communities in Vietnam.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK Government is committed to promoting freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) globally, including in Vietnam. During Vietnam's 2024 Universal Periodic Review at the UN Human Rights Council, the UK put forward recommendations urging Vietnam to take steps to ensure the protection of the right to freedom of religion. Bilaterally, the UK raises FoRB concerns with Vietnamese counterparts. Our Embassy in Hanoi engages with the diplomatic community and civil society to monitor developments and support dialogue on religious freedom.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 2 July 2025 to Question 62574 on Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office: Cost Effectiveness, what savings he expects to make from the FCDO2030 change programme in each of the next five years.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

As part of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) Spending Review settlement, we will invest £290 million in capability-building and digital tools that will transform how we work over the coming years. FCDO will be a more agile organisation, better able to deliver tangible benefits for the British people. We anticipate a significant reduction in terms of headcount across all staff by the end of 2028/29.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to his speech at the British Chambers of Commerce on 20 March 2025, how many diplomats have been seconded to businesses since 20 March 2025; what the (a) cost and (b) staffing requirement will be of the Diplomatic Advisory Hub; which priority markets have been identified; whether he has set (i) targets and (ii) key performance indicators for ambassadors in priority markets; when he plans to announce the programme of domestic roadshows; on which dates the quarterly Lancaster House Business Engagement Series will take place in (A) 2025 and (B) future years; and which ambassadors have produced Strategic Economic Growth Plans.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is driving UK growth across the new Industrial Strategy's priority sectors through Strategic Economic Growth Plans. These prioritise markets with the biggest potential to drive UK Growth, including the EU, the US and China, and a range of other economically important markets, such as India and Japan. The Foreign Secretary chairs regular Delivery Boards to monitor and accelerate delivery across the FCDO towards the Government's Growth Mission, for which key performance indicators are being developed, and agreed. The FCDO is planning a number of events for the Lancaster House Business Engagement Series, including a first event set for July. The FCDO is progressing work on a range of business placements, the first due later this year, and working with the British Chambers of Commerce on plans for the Diplomatic Advisory Hub.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what tangible steps they will take to fulfil their manifesto pledges on tackling unsustainable debt for developing nations and unlocking climate finance, following reductions made to Official Development Assistance.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

We are working with all our partners to tackle unsustainable debt and ensure all countries can invest and grow. The Economic Secretary (EST) is co-chairing the 'London Coalition on Sustainable Sovereign Debt', launched in June to work with private creditors on sovereign debt issues, and at the Fourth Conference on Financing for Development, the UK co-led the launch of the Debt Pause Clause Alliance. We continue to drive progress in the G20 on strengthening and accelerating debt restructurings via the G20 Common Framework.

The UK is committed to playing our part alongside other developed countries and providers to deliver our international climate finance commitments, including through our shareholdings at the Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), the largest providers of public climate finance. We are also pushing for new sources of funding such as agreement on the International Maritime Organisation's Net Zero Framework alongside efforts to mobilise more private capital.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with Caribbean governments on tackling irregular migration.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign Secretary has discussed concerns over Haiti with Caribbean Ministers, including its instability and subsequent effect on illegal migration into British Caribbean Overseas Territories particularly the nearby Turks and Caicos Islands. Officials working in the Caribbean raise irregular migration concerns with their hosts when necessary, most recently with Trinidad & Tobago ahead of the UK's decision to implement a visa regime due to the significant increase in individuals from Trinidad & Tobago seeking to misuse our immigration system.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent steps he has taken to ensure the safe return of British nationals from countries impacted by airspace closures in the Middle East.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Support to British nationals remains our top priority and we have worked at pace to ensure those who wanted to leave left safely. Consular teams have worked round the clock to support British nationals in the region. As soon as Israeli airspace re-opened UK government charter flights left Israel carrying more than 380 people on six flights. In allocating seats, we prioritised those who were most vulnerable, including those with medical needs, children, and the elderly. Commercial flights are now available.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the potential implications for its policies of recent reports of the (a) detention and (b) deportation of members of the Baha'i community in Qatar; what representations he has made to his Qatari counterpart on the protection of religious minorities in that country; and what steps he is taking to support international efforts to (i) promote religious freedom and (ii) protect minority communities in the region.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK is a strong advocate for freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) for all. No one should live in fear because of what they do or do not believe in. As part of the UN Universal Periodic Review in November 2024, the UK called on Qatar to adopt legislation to ensure non-discrimination on the grounds of disability, gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, or belief.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what proportion of the UK's pledge at the Gavi summit on 25 June 2025 will be delivered through the International Finance Facility for Immunisation.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We are currently working with Gavi and the International Finance Facility for Immunisation (IFFIM) Fund Manager to determine the proportion of our £1.25 billion pledge that will be provided through existing and new IFFIM pledges and the annual profile of contributions. Details will be determined and published on Dev Tracker in time for the commencement of the UK's 2026/27 financial year in April 2026.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what the (a) annual spending allocation profile and (b) planned timeline is for the £1.25 funding pledge to Gavi.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We are currently working with Gavi and the International Finance Facility for Immunisation (IFFIM) Fund Manager to determine the proportion of our £1.25 billion pledge that will be provided through existing and new IFFIM pledges and the annual profile of contributions. Details will be determined and published on Dev Tracker in time for the commencement of the UK's 2026/27 financial year in April 2026.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 2 July 2025 to Question 62580 on Chagos Islands: Sovereignty, whether he has budgeted for the first payment to Mauritius to be in financial year 2025-26; and if he will make it his policy to announce the budget lines each element of the payments to Mauritius will come from prior to the publication of the annual accounts.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Rt Hon member to the answer to her previous questions 57197 and 62580.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with the Israeli government on the prevention of aid entering Gaza from the sea.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Government of Israel has halted the entry of all goods and supplies into Gaza for over four months. We have repeatedly called on the Government of Israel to abide by its obligations under International Humanitarian Law to ensure full, rapid, safe and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance to the population in Gaza.

We are clear, the only way to meet the desperate needs of the Gazan people at the speed and scale is via full use of overland routes. The Foreign Secretary reiterated this in his recent calls with Israeli Foreign Minister Sa'ar.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he is taking to ensure the Overseas Territories introduce public registers of beneficial ownership.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Please refer to my Written Ministerial Statement of 3 July which provides an update and details of next steps.

We have made very clear to our partners in the remaining Overseas Territories the importance of delivering on the previously committed to deadlines, and have offered technical support to achieve this. We have communicated that we expect rapid and robust action to be taken, given the crucial importance of tackling illicit finance and increasing transparency. We have set out that we expect access to be granted to a wide range of legitimate users, that registers should enable proactive investigations and should act as a deterrent to those seeking to conceal illicit gains.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office officials have conducted an in-house assessment of the latest policies and proposals from these Overseas Territories against the discussions at the Joint Ministerial Council in November 2024. In addition, we have reviewed feedback from a range of external stakeholders including expert NGOs and parliamentarians. We have also considered emerging international modalities which cover legitimate interest access registers. I have recently discussed this issue with a range of Overseas Territory leaders and will continue to do so.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of using (a) savings groups and (b) other asset-based community development strategies to complement his wider humanitarian aid objectives.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Community-led approaches are effective and sustainable ways to provide assistance. People in crisis often rely on social support networks and the informal economy to survive. From savings groups and informal credit systems to community food-sharing, these systems can often be more resilient and trusted than formal ones.

This is already integrated in our approach; in Yemen our Food Security Safety Nets programme supports Village Savings and Loans Associations to improve individual and community resilience. Our Building Resilient Communities in Somalia programme supports Self Help Groups which include savings and lending alongside wider interventions to foster leadership, social cohesion, and collective action to tackle community challenges and improve livelihoods.

We continue to build our knowledge and evidence of these approaches as we support broader reform of the humanitarian system to ensure a more people-centred, inclusive and locally-led response.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of imposing Magnitsky-style sanctions on people responsible for religious persecution in (a) Iran, (b) Eritrea and (c) Pakistan.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK's Global Human Rights sanctions regime can be used to impose sanctions for serious human rights violations or abuses, including; i) an individual's right to life; ii) right not to be subjected to torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment; and iii) right to be free from slavery, not to be held in servitude or required to perform forced or compulsory labour. Sanctions complement other tools as part of a wider strategy. It would not be appropriate to speculate about potential future designations as to do so could reduce their impact.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to Article 6 of the UK-Mauritius Treaty, what discussions he has had with his Mauritian counterpart on (a) visits to and (b) resettlement of the Chagos Archipelago since 22 May 2025.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

These issues continue to be discussed with Mauritius as part of the implementation of the Treaty. The Government will not provide a running commentary on these conversations, but ahead of ratification, the Government will make a Ministerial Statement in both Houses on Chagossian eligibility for resettlement. It is our aim to restart visits at the earliest opportunity and we will provide further information on this later this year.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to update the text of the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative strategy published on 28 November 2022; and if so, when and why they plan to do so.

Answered by Lord Collins of Highbury - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

This Government's determination to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) remains resolute. We are fully implementing the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative (PSVI) strategy. In the last year alone, through PSVI, we have contributed to three landmark cases on CRSV as a crime against humanity and supported almost 60,000 survivors. At the same time, we are considering our future approach to PSVI to best harness the UK's development, defence, and diplomatic capabilities to tackle this appalling crime in a context of rising conflict and increasing prevalence of CRSV. We will continue to engage closely with survivors as we develop our future approach.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they provided any advice or recommendations to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) regarding visits or technical assistance support to Bahrain in the past 12 months; and if so, on what dates.

Answered by Lord Collins of Highbury - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has not provided any advice or recommendations to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) regarding visits or technical assistance support to Bahrain in the past 12 months.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they intend to continue maintaining and publishing the list of human rights priority countries in the Human Rights and Democracy Reports.

Answered by Lord Collins of Highbury - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

This Government is firmly committed to furthering human rights around the world. We do this by investing in building partnerships, including with civil society, and by drawing on our diplomatic and development levers to deliver meaningful change on the ground. In December 2024, I, as the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Minister for Human Rights, set out our five priorities for promoting and protecting human rights.

They are: 1) defending civic space; 2) upholding the rule of law; 3) championing equal rights for all; 4) supporting accountable, effective, inclusive institutions; and 5) responding to global challenges, including climate, conflict and technology by prioritising human rights and governance principles.

Our focus will be how we address these priorities and themes across all countries rather than single out an individual country in our published annual report.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, in regard to the visit to Bahrain by the Director of the Gulf Strategic Fund Programme, how many meetings he held with non-governmental organisations during that visit, including civil society actors and human rights defenders; what was the source of funding of the trip; and how many officials accompanied him.

Answered by Lord Collins of Highbury - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Gulf Strategy Fund (GSF) Manager visited Bahrain from 1-2 June. This visit aimed to help the GSF Manager familiarise himself with the Bahrain GSF Programme, understand its local impact, and review outcomes to inform future programme strategy. During his visit, he met Bahraini governmental and non-governmental actors, as well as Embassy staff. Only Embassy officials accompanied the Fund Manager to the meetings. The visit was funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he is taking to reduce the economic (a) stability and (b) powers of people involved in human rights abuses in Sudan.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK condemns human rights violations and abuses committed by the warring parties in Sudan. Since the outbreak of the conflict in 2023, the UK has frozen the assets of nine commercial entities linked to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces. These sanctions were designed to disrupt the financial networks fuelling the war, to press the parties to engage in a sustained and meaningful peace process, allow humanitarian access and to commit to a permanent cessation of hostilities. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, the UK also supported the imposition of UN sanctions on two RSF generals for their crimes against civilians in November 2024. We will continue to work closely with partners at the UN Security Council to enforce these. UK leadership has been critical to the continued scrutiny of Sudan at the UN Human Rights Council, where we are the leader of the Core Group alongside Germany and Norway. The UK also led lobbying for the renewal of the Fact-Finding Mission mandate in October 2024 to ensure allegations of human rights violations and abuses by all sides are investigated impartially.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he has taken to sanction people involved in human rights abuses in Sudan.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK condemns human rights violations and abuses committed by the warring parties in Sudan. Since the outbreak of the conflict in 2023, the UK has frozen the assets of nine commercial entities linked to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces. These sanctions were designed to disrupt the financial networks fuelling the war, to press the parties to engage in a sustained and meaningful peace process, allow humanitarian access and to commit to a permanent cessation of hostilities. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, the UK also supported the imposition of UN sanctions on two RSF generals for their crimes against civilians in November 2024. We will continue to work closely with partners at the UN Security Council to enforce these. UK leadership has been critical to the continued scrutiny of Sudan at the UN Human Rights Council, where we are the leader of the Core Group alongside Germany and Norway. The UK also led lobbying for the renewal of the Fact-Finding Mission mandate in October 2024 to ensure allegations of human rights violations and abuses by all sides are investigated impartially.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions (a) Ministers and (b) officials in his Department have had with their counterparts in the Government of Mauritius on (i) the Chagossian Trust Fund and (ii) the programme of visits and settlements on the Chagos Archipelago since 22 May 2025.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

These issues are being discussed with Mauritius as part of the implementation of the Treaty. Ahead of ratification, the Government will make a Ministerial Statement in both Houses providing a factual update on eligibility for resettlement and the modalities of the trust fund.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Myanmar to secure the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and the restoration of democracy in Myanmar.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

The UK continues to call for the release of those arbitrarily detained in Myanmar both bilaterally and through multilateral fora. On 19th June, to mark Aung San Suu Kyi's 80th birthday, the Minister for the Indo-Pacific called for her release and for all those arbitrarily detained. On 1st February, the Foreign Secretary called for Aung San Suu Kyi's release and all those arbitrarily detained. In April, we co-sponsored the UN Human Rights Council Resolution on Myanmar, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all those who have been arbitrarily detained, including Aung San Suu Kyi.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he plans to place China on the enhanced tier of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Rt. Hon. Member to my response given to question 36632.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government how many meeting requests they have received from the London-based Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy over the past two years, including requests to Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office officials, the UK Mission in Geneva, and other relevant diplomatic posts; and on how many occasions such meetings were granted.

Answered by Lord Collins of Highbury - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) does not retain information on the specific number of meeting requests they receive from the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy, although we are aware that they have met FCDO officials during this period.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much of the £290 million FCDO transformation fund announced in the National Security Strategy will be directed towards countering potential threats posed by China.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

National Security is the first duty of government. As the National Security Strategy said on China, we will increase our China capabilities across the national security system to strengthen our ability to engage, as well as to enhance our resilience and readiness.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether his Department has received representations from representatives of Pacific Island nations on the prohibition of Kava in the UK.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK prohibition is raised occasionally with our High Commissioners in the Pacific and by some Pacific Island High Commissions in London.

In each case, we remind our Pacific partners about the evidence and procedures that are required to review the ban.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential merits of funding English-language BBC World Service (a) content through the licence fee and (b) language services through direct Government grant-in-aid.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The World Service English service is part funded by BBC Licence Fee and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Grant-in-Aid. Any changes to that funding model will be explored through the Charter Review process, led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Ahead of this the Government will keep an open mind about the future of the licence fee and how the World Service is funded. The Charter Review is the right moment to look at potential future World Service funding mechanisms for the longer-term.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of changes to the level of funding for BBC (a) Arabic and (b) Persian services on his Department's strategy in those regions; and whether he plans to maintain levels of funding for those services in the next funding cycle.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office received its funding settlement for financial year (FY) 26-27 to FY 28-29 on 11 June. The Department is now starting work to determine future allocations for all spend, including the World Service language services such as Arabic and Persian, which are part funded by BBC Licence Fee and Grant in Aid. We expect this process to conclude and final allocations to be announced in the Autumn.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he plans to increase Parliamentary oversight of the BBC World Service.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office holds the BBC World Service to account through published Objectives, Priorities and Targets which include targets for reach, quality, impact and value. In addition, there are regular meetings - quarterly, annual and ad hoc between the Foreign Secretary, Ministers, BBC Seniors and officials to monitor performance. The forthcoming Charter Review, led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), will provide an essential opportunity for the Government to consider a range of issues relating to the BBC, including how the BBC is accountable to those who fund it.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether the BBC World Service has a role on the Soft Power Council; and what progress that Council has made since its establishment.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Harnessing all of our soft power assets in a more purposeful manner is crucial if we are to maximise growth, security, and global impact for the UK. That is why the Foreign Secretary has established the UK Soft Power Council and commissioned a Soft Power Strategy. The BBC is a key part of this, represented on the Council by Tom Fussell from BBC Studios. The BBC World Service is contributing in various ways, including through the Director of the World Service, Jonathan Munro, acting as a member of the Council's working group on Hinge Markets.

The Council is now fully operational, bringing together expertise from various sectors and shaping enhanced delivery through its working groups. We are producing a long-term shared Strategy between Government and soft power sectors to deliver tangible impact for the UK's objectives. That will be reviewed at the Council's next Ministerial meeting on 23 July.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies on freedom of religion or belief of (a) reports of the escalation of violence against Hindu communities in Bangladesh since August 2024 and (b) the response of the interim government.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK has a long-standing commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights. We support the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and their report on the violations that occurred in Bangladesh in July and August 2024. In October 2024, we were pleased to see the establishment of a special policing unit by the Interim Government in the lead up to Durga Puja to protect Hindu worship sites.

In November 2024, I visited Bangladesh and discussed the importance of the protection of religious minorities with Chief Adviser Yunus and UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders visited Bangladesh in February. The UK-funded £27 million Bangladesh Collaborative, Accountable and Peaceful Politics programme is contributing to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. Through this programme, the Hunger project has organised a range of initiatives to foster inter-ethnic and religious peace. We will continue to engage with the Interim Government on ensuring minority voices are meaningfully included in the reform process and that these communities feel both protected and represented.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of reports of redevelopment plans impacting Sikh families in the Guru Tegh Bahadur Nagar area of Mumbai.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK Government is aware of reports concerning the redevelopment of Guru Tegh Bahadur Nagar in Mumbai, and its potential impact on Sikh families. While this is a matter for the Indian authorities, we continue to monitor developments affecting minority communities globally. We encourage all redevelopment efforts, wherever they occur, to be conducted transparently and with full consideration for the rights and welfare of affected residents.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with which organisations he has held discussions on the development of the China Audit.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office China Audit team proactively engaged a wide range of stakeholders to ensure that the full range of interests arising from the UK's relationship with China was represented; this included Parliament, business, the academic sector, civil society and the devolved governments.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has considered secondary sanctions on UK-based financial institutions that continue to (a) underwrite, (b) trade and (c) market securities issued by Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps subsidiaries listed in Hong Kong.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

In March 2021, the UK, along with international partners, imposed sanctions relating to human rights abuses in Xinjiang, including sanctions against Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. 'Secondary sanctions' can be understood in different ways. UK sanctions apply and are enforced only in relation to UK nationals and entities (wherever they are in the world) and to any activity in the UK or its territorial sea. Consistent with this approach, and across diverse contexts, we continue to keep any potential future sanctions under review.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his Department’s policies of maintaining the BN(O) visa scheme with a five-year pathway to indefinite leave to remain.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Government is committed to supporting members of the Hong Kong community who have relocated to the UK and those who may come here in future. As the Foreign Secretary stated in the latest Six-monthly Report on Hong Kong, our commitment to the BN(O) visa route remains steadfast.

Further details of all measures announced in the Immigration White Paper will be set out in the normal way in due course, and where necessary, will be subject to consultation.

We regularly engage with representatives of the Hong Kong diaspora in the UK on issues related to the BN(O) visa.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 2 July 2025 to Question 62574 on Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office: Cost Effectiveness, whether the FCDO2030 change programme has (a) key performance indicators and (b) outcomes; when she will publish details of the programme; and when she will provide an update on the programme.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The FCDO2030 Programme was set up in May this year and will establish key strategic outcomes alongside a set of metrics. Our strategic outcomes will be in pursuit of delivering tangible benefits for the British public, under the Plan for Change. We are currently restructuring the department to provide both efficiencies, and enhanced ability to deliver these outcomes, while developing the metrics in parallel.

Found: Wider collaboration across the civil service (including Treasury, UKEF, DBT, and FCDO) will also be

Found: government action, alongside the enabling roles of other government departments, including DBT, DSIT, FCDO

Found: What assessment has the FCDO made of the political motivations behind recent arrests of Tunisian parliamentarians

Found: What assessment has the FCDO made of the political motivations behind recent arrests of Tunisian parliamentarians

Found: mutilation Correspondence from Rt Hon Baroness Chapman of Darlington, Minister of State for Development, FCDO

Found: from further cyberattacks.18 However, rather than taking decisive action, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: parliament annually on incidents of transnational repression in the UK and efforts by the Home Office, FCDO

Found: The “festivals” dossier was shared widely, including with the Home Office, FCDO, London Mayor’s Office

Found: that, I haven’t seen any coordinated action or involvement from departments like the Home Office or FCDO

Found: been taken, they would likely involve departments such as the Home Office, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: Ministerial on Freedom of Religion or Beliefv, and FoRB being a foreign policy priority for the FCDO

Found: FCDO has mainstreamed gender in its Global Mine Action Programme (GMAP) and could follow GMAP example

Found: It is deeply concerning that HMG has proposed to cut FCDO funding for women and girls programming, placing

Found: WPHF, Tonni Brodber; the Deputy Director of Gender and Children in Conflict department at the UK FCDO

Found: In 2023, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) reported that 52% of the bilateral

Found: promoted by key international actors including the independent expert on SOGI.10 5.4 Commissioned FCDO

Found: The ISF is managed more centrally by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and other

Found: The FCDO-backed First Response Fund - specifically designed by 12 Feminist/ Women's Funds to create

Found: challenges faced by grassroots women’s organisations in accessing and reporting on funding from the FCDO

Found: the UK Government, limited its ability to utilise evidence from pilot CSSF initiatives across the FCDO

Found: Sweden | +46 8 588 891 00 | info@kvinnatillkvinna.se | kvinnatillkvinna.org 4 (5)Date 16 May 2025 The FCDO

Found: IFES has firsthand knowledge of the value of the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office’s (FCDO

Found: thematic_challengingoperatingenvironments_report_en.pdf [Accessed 14 April 2025]. 32 Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: draft indicators for focus countries: ‘% of women participating in peace processes as a result of FCDO

Found: As outlined in an important research paper by the WPS Helpdesk commissioned by FCDO, prevention hones

Found: WPS0015 - Women, peace and security Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office Written Evidence

Found: World Vision UK has a long-standing partnership with the UK Government and currently delivers several FCDO-funded

Found: According to the FRIT II Framework, Output 5.1 (FCDO, 2024), the UK has been playing the leading role

Found: UK: Ministry of Defence and FCDO.

Found: Gaps in communication between relevant departments, including the Cabinet Office, the MOD and the FCDO

Found: guarantee for World Bank lending to Egypt, which the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, and Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Oral Evidence

Found: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Department of Health and Social Care, Foreign, Commonwealth

Found: I am the Minister for International Development based in the FCDO.

Found: In conversations when I was at FCDO with DSIT, formerly BEIS, which was leading on the area around

Found: In addition, could you please update the committee on your discussions with FCDO Minister Falconer following

Found: includes Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Home Office, Attorney General Office (AGO), Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: This assessment, funded by the FCDO, will identify gaps in the UK legal and policy measures, assess

Found: As mentioned above, in-country resources from FCDO are uniquely placed to help businesses understand

Found: The Home Office, DBT and FCDO should adopt the freely available national standard and promote it as a

Found: FCDO continues to meet these challenges and IFMA looks forward to continuing to serve as a resource

Found: by SAS Software (FOE0002) Public Accounts Committee – Response Submission Subject: Oversight of the FCDO

Found: Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, Foreign Commonwealth

Found: Liam, Thank you for your letter to Minister Doughty on 4 June requesting that Ministers from DBT, FCDO

Found: the-uk- science-and-technology-framework-update-on-progress-9-february-2024. 12 Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: programme, the centre comprises four core members: the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: international agenda with some contributions from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: Wellcome encourages FCDO and DCMS to co-ordinate a cross-Government approach, with DSIT and the cross-government

Found: outward-facing government departments such as the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: Academy Science-Policy Platform (led by London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and funded by FCDO

Found: Office (UKMO), the European Space Agency (ESA), the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: CEPI receives generous funding support from the UK Government through the FCDO and the DHSC., CEPI is

Found: Challenge, the Turing applies AI to global climate risks in partnership with the Met Office and the FCDO

Found:  Working in collaboration with parts of the UK Government, including the FCDO, DBT and the STN, to

Found: .  The Science and Technology Network (STN), in tandem with DSIT and FCDO, can serve as a powerful

Found: interpretation and mobilisation of strategic expectations by professionals on the ground (e.g. within the FCDO

Found: Commonwealth and Development Office in a letter to the then-Chair of the Public Accounts Committee: “FCDO

Found: NOC works closely with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to maximise engagement

Found: We provide weather and climate data, expertise and services to the FCDO and other international development

Found: Technology (DSIT) plays a central role in this strategy by coordinating with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: benefit and equal value placed on each partners contribution”.36 Case study – The Royal Society – FCDO

Found: Appropriate metrics could include the flow of scientific knowledge from the research sector to FCDO;

Found: (FCDO) (SDY0020) Science Diplomacy Inquiry Context The Science, Innovation and

Found: 20and%20standard s,them%20to%20achieve%20these%20goals 24 https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/the-fcdo-means-business-foreign-secretarys-british-chamber-of

Found: Better inter- agency coordination between DSIT, FCDO, MOD, and intelligence agencies would ensure that

Found: .  FCDO and UKRI could jointly support UK early- and mid-career researchers to participate in these

Found: supported by DSIT but also the research and science funded by other departments including the DHSC and FCDO

Found: strategy, with strong alignment between DSIT and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: goal of ending poverty, we collaborate closely with civil society organisations and engage with the FCDO

Found: With a clear steer, all Government Departments from DSIT, FCDO, Defence (including the Defence Innovation

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the Answer of 10 July 2025 to Question 65293 on Defence: Finance, what the total quantum of spend on the Chagos settlement is, for each remaining year of the current Parliament.

Answered by Darren Jones - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

The UK’s financial obligations under the UK-Mauritius Treaty can be found in the document ‘UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia’, which is available on Gov.uk. Payments will be managed responsibly within the government’s fiscal framework and reported in annual accounts in the usual way. Obligations within MOD and FCDO budgets have been agreed through the recently published Spending Review. No payments will be made until the treaty is legally binding.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, how the year-on-year spending associated with the Chagos Islands deal will be funded.

Answered by Darren Jones - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

Any financial obligations arising from the UK-Mauritius agreement on the Chagos Archipelago, including departmental budgetary responsibilities, will be managed responsibly within the government’s fiscal framework and reported in annual accounts in the usual way. Obligations within MOD and FCDO budgets have been agreed through the recently published Spending Review. No payments will be made until the treaty is legally binding.

Found: Sudan, 11 July 2025 19 UNOCHA, Sudan: Humanitarian access snapback (May 2025), 4 June 2025 20 FCDO

Found: France DSTL, FCDO, OPCW and Spiez Laboratory (Novichok poisonings investigation) 2018 The GRU conducted

Found: From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Home Office, Cabinet Office and National Cyber Security

Found: The FCDO also funds the NCA’s International Corruption Unit, which investigates international bribery

Found: decommissioning------------16.718.517.8Taxes subject to challenge5.59.714.514.529.235.649.118.762.32.23.13.24.1-FCDO

Found: reported contingent liabilties Clinical negligence Nuclear decommissioning Taxes subject to challenge FCDO

Found: (FCDO) and the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

Found: (FCDO) and the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

Found: Agreement for Project SGA-NHRI.EU-2023-02 – NI Business Human Rights Index Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: thriving collaboration between the UK’s Department for Business and Trade, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: the world on the changes at a joint Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: Britain and Northern Ireland, that has a Memorandum of Understanding currently in place with the FCDO

Found: FCDO has simplified its due diligence assessment process for organisations applying for international

Found: Britain and Northern Ireland, that has a Memorandum of Understanding currently in place with the FCDO

Found: policy and the Passport Office; and • Expenditure by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: Development (202 4) Making the Most Out of Digital Trade in the United Kingdom. 162 Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: FCDO Services senior officials’ business expenses and hospitality, April to June 2025

Found: (FCDO) and the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

Found: (FCDO) and the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

Found: international debt policy function and represents UK at the Paris Club and the IMF • the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: international debt policy function and represents UK at the Paris Club and the IMF • the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: International partnerships45+ countries Met Office WISER programme, funded by FCDO, builds resilience

Found: International partnerships45+ countries Met Office WISER programme, funded by FCDO, builds resilience

Found: We also worked with FCDO colleagues to host a conference in Singapore on the illegal trade in marine

Found: (FCDO) primarily in Africa, Asia and the Middle East, and helping other governments

Found: HMRC and FCDO internal audit teams join GIAA as affiliate members - concluding our One GIA programme

Found: with local authorities, diplomatic missions, international organisations and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: The Foreign, Commonwealth and Develop ment Office (FCDO) continues to invest in the BBC World Service

Found: FCDO Services spend over £25,000, June 2025

Found: FCDO Services spend over £25,000, June 2025

Found: FCDO Services spend over £25,000, June 2025

Found: GLD lawyers also worked closely with Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) lawyers to

Found: practice via new FCDO Commercial Forum and cyber security in new FCDO Cyber Security Forum.

Found: Quarterly FCDO/WFD oversight meetings to review progress, relationship, and governance.

Found: From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Westminster Foundation for Democracy Published

Found: public benefit criterion and UDC’s delivery of direct aid in Ukraine, was that the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: France DSTL, FCDO, OPCW and Spiez Laboratory (Novichok poisonings investigation) 2018 The GRU conducted

Found: From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Home Office, Cabinet Office and National Cyber Security

Found: in a timely and efficient manner.’143 9.1.9 The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: in Pakistan, no date 39 Graana, Top Private and Government Hospitals in Islamabad, 27 May 2022 40 FCDO

Found: 2.31), 19 December 2019 Page 8 of 39 1.2.3 The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: areas, education and social status.’ 19 2.1.8 The Foreign, Development and Commonwealth Office (FCDO

Found: relevant urban hukou (household registration).’28 2.6.8 The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO

Found: deliver a specific package of services.’4 2.1.3 The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: date 14 World Bank, ‘Bangladesh- Improving Hospital Services Quality …’ (page 6), 10 August 2021 15 FCDO

Found: provide advanced life support.’44 1.14.4 See also the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO

Found: reflections from current Afghanistan work from across HMG, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: Meeting with FCDO and Nordic Council of Ministers.Copenhagen No Catering and meeting costs £391.68 13

Question

To ask the Scottish Government how many people are currently employed by Scottish Development International, broken down by office location.

Answered by Lochhead, Richard - Minister for Business and Employment

Scottish Development International (SDI) is the international arm of Scottish Enterprise (SE). The SDI teams in overseas offices are made up of staff employed by FCDO on behalf of Scottish Enterprise. The breakdown by location of these FCDO employed staff is included in the following table. There are also Scotland and London based staff working in the international arm of SE. SE's international teams based in Scotland currently employ 150 staff; and 8 in London.