Colombia: Human Rights

Debate between Lord Bhatia and Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon

Monday 12th July 2021 Lords Chamber

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Con) [V]]

My Lords, I confirm to my noble friend that we have made representations through discussions at the United Nations. As I said, we continue to make representations through my colleague, Minister Morton, and our ambassador to Colombia.

[Lord Bhatia (Non-Afl) [V]]

My Lords, if reports of the killings are correct, should we not cancel the trade agreement?

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Con) [V]]

My Lords, as the noble Lord may recollect, the trade agreement has specific articles contained within it, Articles 1 and 8, which ensure that human rights are upheld. We will continue, because Colombia is yet to ratify the trade agreement, to uphold that aspect of it. Equally, as we lend support to Colombia, it is important that we ensure improved trade and prosperity for all Colombians.

Bahrain: Human Rights Abuses

Debate between Lord Bhatia and Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon

Thursday 25th March 2021 Lords Chamber

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Con) [V]]

We welcome the death penalty being abolished, and of course that remains the long-standing position of Her Majesty’s Government. We continue to raise this globally with all partners.

[Lord Bhatia (Non-Afl) [V]]

My Lords, can we stop all exports to Bahrain as a way out of this big dilemma?

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Con) [V]]

My Lords, I think that the noble Lord talked about stopping exports. I do not believe that that is the correct way forward. Bahrain is an important partner and, as we have seen on this important yet sensitive agenda, there has been progress there. Being a critical and constructive friend is the way forward.