Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor: Citizenship

Debate between Lord Cashman and Lord Wood of Anfield

Thursday 17th September 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Cashman (Non-Afl)]

My Lords, I am non-affiliated, so it is my turn. Notwithstanding the due process referred to by the noble Lord, Lord Polak, does the Minister agree that, when a senior member of a Government threatens to withdraw citizenship, that can have a chilling effect on freedom of expression and, indeed, artistic expression? I would like to widen this slightly further: will he now take action against the Turkish Government for arresting LGBT activists and LGBT people merely for expressing their right to live and exist?

[Lord Wood of Anfield (Lab)]

I thank my noble friend. I have raised the issue on LGBT activists with my Turkish counterparts. On the general question, I do not think it is appropriate to respond to individual comments of politicians in other countries. At this stage, I will leave it at that.