Baroness Chapman of Darlington, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, has provided the following answer to your written parliamentary question (HL3050):
Question by Lord Alton of Liverpool :
To ask His Majesty’s Government what discussions they have had with the government of Thailand about the case of Y Quynh Bđăp; and what steps they are taking to support the protection of human rights and freedom of religion or belief in Southeast Asia. (HL3050)
Tabled on: 02 December 2024
Answer:
Baroness Chapman of Darlington:
We are following developments in Y Quynh Bdap’s ongoing legal case closely. This includes observing his court hearings through the British Embassy in Bangkok. This Government is committed to using the strength of our global network to protect and promote Freedom of Religion or Belief for all. Date and time of answer: 12 Dec 2024 at 15:31
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Baroness Chapman of Darlington, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, has provided the following answer to your written parliamentary question (HL3051):
Question by Lord Alton of Liverpool:
To ask His Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of reports of restrictions on religious freedom in Bangladesh, in particular, the detention of religious leaders and prevention of monks from travelling to India to attend a religious ceremony; what assessment they have made of the impact of such restrictions; and what steps they are taking to support the protection of freedom of religion or belief in that region. (HL3051)
Tabled on: 02 December 2024
Answer:
Baroness Chapman of Darlington:
The UK has a long-standing commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, including Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB). Following the student-led protests in July and August, we have been closely monitoring the situation for minorities in Bangladesh. In November, Minister West visited Bangladesh and discussed the importance of the protection of religious minorities, including the Hindu community, with Chief Adviser Yunus. We are providing up to £27 million under the Bangladesh Collaborative, Accountable and Peaceful Politics programme for protecting civic and political space, fostering collaboration, reducing corruption, and mitigating tensions that lead to violence. We will continue to engage with the Interim Government of Bangladesh on the importance of FoRB.
Date and time of answer: 12 Dec 2024 at 15:31.
