Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed al-Maktoum

Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle Excerpts

Wednesday 17th March 2021 Lords Chamber

[Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay (Con)]

My Lords, as that alleged incident did not involve any UK-registered vessels or British nationals, it does not fall under the UK’s jurisdiction under international law. Accordingly, we have not raised it with the Government of India.

[Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle (GP) [V]]

My Lords, building on the questions of the noble Baroness, Lady Northover, and the noble Lord, Lord Collins, I refer to the 80% of the UAE population who are low-paid migrant workers. What representations have been made on the fate of what seem to be at least hundreds of women a year, including rape victims, who are prosecuted and jailed under the laws against extra-marital sex? What representations have been made on the impact of those laws not only on migrant workers, but also on women across the UAE population generally?

[Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay (Con)]

My Lords, we have a close relation with UAE and we are therefore able to raise matters directly with it. The Integrated Review, to which I have referred, sets out the UK’s policy and stance to make us a force for good in the world.