Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with the Cameroon authorities concerning attacks against Christian communities in the far north, including recent reports of (1) abduction, and (2) murder; and what diplomatic steps they are taking to ensure the promotion of religious freedom in the country.

The UK continues to support Cameroonian efforts to counter terrorism in the Far North and assist communities affected by violence and displacement. This includes regular diplomatic engagement, both bilaterally and through multilateral fora, and through frequent visits to the region to engage with affected communities and authorities. While we have not had specific discussions with the Cameroonian authorities about the recent reports of abduction and murder, we continue to advocate for the protection of all vulnerable communities. Over the past five years, the UK has provided over £20 million in humanitarian and development assistance to Cameroon, much of it focused on the Far North, and we continue to back stabilisation efforts in the Lake Chad region. The UK Government continues to monitor civil and political rights in Cameroon and is committed to upholding the right to freedom of religion or belief.