Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he is taking steps to engage with Russian LGBTQ+ (a) activists and (b) civil society, in the context of the new law banning LGBT propaganda among adults in that country.
Gender Equality (encompassing LGBT+ rights) is a priority for the FCDO, including in Russia. Despite the challenging environment, we will continue to support LGBT+ activists and other civil society groups working on gender-related issues. Russia's updated anti-"propaganda" law aims to create a climate of fear and restrict the freedoms of all Russians. As a member of the Equal Rights Coalition, the UK has worked with international partners to make clear to Russia that we all stand with all LGBT+ people in Russia following these amendments.