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Mr. Streeter: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the Secretary ofState for International Development about the promotion of religious freedom in Government aid programmes. [159392]Mr. Battle: According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience andreligion. However, reality can fall far short of the standards set down in international law.Promotion of human rights is at the heart of our foreign policy and we regard religious freedom as a fundamental human right. Wecondemn instances where individuals are persecuted because of their faith, wherever it happens and whatever the religion of theindividual or group concerned.We take every opportunity, often working with our EU partners, to urge states to pursue laws and practices which foster toleranceand mutual respect and to protect religious minorities against discrimination, intimidation and attacks. We also regularly raisespecific cases of religious persecution with the Governments concerned.Wherever possible we aim to work with officials, religious leaders and non-governmental organisations at international and locallevel to promote mutual understanding and tolerance. Where the possibility of meaningful dialogue on human rights issues exists, webelieve that this is the best way to achieve lasting change. |