Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with UK-based Nepali community leaders on recent violence in that country.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office expressed the UK Government's continued support for democracy and fundamental freedoms in Nepal in response to recent incidents of violence and restrictions on peaceful protest in Nepal. Our Ambassador in Kathmandu also reiterated the UK's commitment to democratic principles, the rule of law, and the protection of free speech and peaceful assembly. The UK continues to encourage all parties in Nepal to uphold these values and to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve tensions peacefully. Our Strengthening Foundations of Federalism in Nepal programme (2019-2025) promotes inclusive decision-making processes and capacity of local governments and state-citizen engagement. We remain committed to working with Nepal to promote democratic governance, uphold civil liberties, and support inclusive development.