§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) what recent discussions he has had with the Pakistani authorities on its blasphemy laws; [92046]
(2) if he will make a statement on the situation of Christians in Pakistan. [92045]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienWe are concerned about any human rights violations in Pakistan. We have serious concerns about the situation of Christians, particularly because of the many attacks against them in the past year and the misuse of the blasphemy laws. We remain deeply concerned that the death penalty can be imposed for blasphemy. The UK opposes the death penalty in all circumstances. On 15 July 2002 I raised our concerns directly with the Pakistani high commissioner in London. Together with our EU partners, we also regularly raise our concerns with the Pakistani authorities in Islamabad. We will continue to take every appropriate opportunity to urge Pakistan to pursue laws and practices which foster tolerance and mutual respect and to protect Christians and other religious minorities against discrimination, intimidation and attacks.