§ 16. Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on his Department's policy in respect of freedom of religious practice and expression. [1173]
§ Mr. Tony LloydWe are strongly opposed to religious intolerance and discrimination in any form. The Government are committed to the principles enshrined in the universal declaration of human rights, the international covenant on civil and political rights, the European convention on human rights and the declaration on the elimination of all forms of intolerance and of discrimination based on religion or belief.
§ Rev. Martin SmythI thank the Minister for that response. Does he agree that, where there is intolerance in religious practice, whether in Israel, Saudi Arabia or elsewhere, we shall oppose it, because when people come to this country we allow complete freedom of religious practice and expression—which also includes the right to change?
§ Mr. LloydI endorse the hon. Gentleman's remarks. We extend freedom of religion to all who seek refuge within these shores. We continue to raise questions of religious intolerance with those who practise it in their countries—and will continue to do just that.
§ Mr. CorbynWhat pressure can my hon. Friend bring to bear on the Iranian regime to lift the fatwa against Salman Rushdie?
§ Mr. LloydThat is an important question. While we view the election of a new Iranian president with interest, it must be made clear to Iran that any improvement in relations between Britain and Iran will depend greatly on the lifting of the fatwa against Salman Rushdie, who is after all a British citizen. Indeed, it is outrageous that the fatwa was issued against him in the first place.
Similarly, Iranian Government operations around the world continue to cause concern, not just in terms of religious intolerance but because of their attacks on the basic human rights of their own citizens and others.