§ The Earl of Sandwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
What advice they are giving to British nationals regarding the purchase and consumption of alcohol according to current interpretation of Islamic law in (a) Afghanistan; (b) Iraq; and (c) Saudi Arabia. [HL3727]
§ The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean)The position for each country is as follows:
Afghanistan: Alcohol is prohibited in Afghanistan. Foreign and Commonwealth Office Travel Advice says: "The importation and use of narcotics, alcohol and pork products are forbidden";
Iraq: the sale and consumption of alcohol are legal in Iraq;
Saudi Arabia: the travel advice for Saudi Arabia makes clear that Islamic law is strictly enforced and that the penalties for possession of, or trade in, alcohol are severe.