Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Richard Holden and Hamish Falconer

Tuesday 24th June 2025 Commons Chamber

[Mr Falconer]

We are talking to the French and the Saudis about their plans. Obviously events in the middle east are moving quickly, but I recognise the force of what my hon. Friend has said.

[Mr Richard Holden (Basildon and Billericay) (Con)]

Cousin marriage is often used as a cover for forced marriage. Have the Government raised the issue of the incredibly high rate of first-cousin marriage with the Pakistani Government, given that so many of those marriages are between UK and Pakistani nationals?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Richard Holden and Hamish Falconer

Tuesday 22nd October 2024 Commons Chamber

[Mr Richard Holden (Basildon and Billericay) (Con)]

T5. Hezbollah continues to use Lebanese civilians as human shields. On Friday, the caretaker Prime Minister in Lebanon accused Iran of blatant interference in Lebanese affairs. What more will the Minister do to help ensure that both Israeli and Lebanese counterparts can face down the threat from Iran?

[Hamish Falconer]

I referred to our actions against Iran in the region, and the importance of removing its influence in Lebanon as best we can. This week I will attend the Lebanon conference in Paris, where these matters will be discussed.