Business of the House

Jim Shannon Excerpts

Thursday 27th November 2025 Commons Chamber

[Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)]

I am deeply concerned by the growing and systematic discrimination faced by Christians in Algeria, including the closing of churches and the aggressive abuse of blasphemy legislation against Christian converts. Will the Leader of the House urge the Foreign Secretary to outline what concrete actions the Government will take to ensure the protection of Christian communities and the promotion of freedom of religion and belief in Algeria as a fundamental priority?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising such a serious issue, as he always does. As he knows, we are committed to defending freedom of religion and belief for all. We monitor the human rights situation in Algeria and routinely meet religious groups there to determine how best to support freedom of religion and belief. I understand that the relevant Foreign Office Minister met the Algerian Government last month to discuss this very issue. I will ensure that the Foreign Secretary hears the hon. Gentleman’s concerns.