Live Foreign and Commonwealth Office Questions House of Commons

parties, the DUP and Sinn Fein, failed to form a new Coalition

executive before yesterday's deadline. MPs will then debate

amendments in the House of Lords to the neighbourhood planning Bill. At

around 2pm we will go to the Scottish parliament for its final

day of debate on a second referendum. MPs will

vote at around 5pm on whether to give the Scottish Parliament to

negotiate with the rest of the Westminster Government. You can

continue watching the House of Commons if by using the red button

service or on the website. me for first, questions to the

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and his team of ministers. Order. Order.

Mr Nicholas Brown I beg to move that Mr Speaker issue his warrant to the

clerk of the Crown to make out a new macro to selecting a member to serve

in this present Parliament for the borough constituency of Manchester

Gorton, in the room of The right honourable Sir Gerald Kaufmann

deceased. The order as I issue my warrant to make out a new writ for

the electing of a member to serve in this present Parliament for this

constituency of Manchester Gorton in the rule of The right honourable

Gerald Kaufman, deceased. The ayes have it. Order. Questions to the

Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Number one. In

Zimbabwe, presidential elections are due to take place in 2018, but time

is running out to a low voter registration to be completed. We

regularly raise concerns and the importance of free and fair and is,

and this was done on the 21st of March with the Deputy

Foreign Minister. I congratulate him. Is he aware that the opposition

parties and the human rights groups are all saying the way of rigging

the elections is now in Zimbabwe, to do something about the electoral

registration system, we will not have the answers taking place which

are unfair. We do not have the access we would like. We are

concerned about the misuse of biometric data, and registration

gets going missing and B, to improve access for the elections can drop

Chinese, Russian and Israeli money is flooding in, buying influence for

and in anticipation of a post Mugabe environment. Watches the government

to meet the manifesto pledge to uphold the rule of law in Zimbabwe,

which could become the centre of sub-Saharan Africa? I can assure him

we're working on this, but given the fact that Mugabe is still in place,

there are limits to what I can say, but we are working on this very hard

indeed. I also congratulate the right honourable member on his

actions last week. There have been disturbing reports we're six women

allege they were targeted for refusing to follow instructions to

feign blindness and physical injury which would have allowed someone

else to assist them by marking their ballot. Are these your sports being

investigated? She illustrates just one example of what is happening in

this country as we lead up to these elections, which is why we and other

nation states are concerned. We have limited access ourselves, so we need

to place pressure on the countries working in the country to make sure

Free and Fair Election Foundation place, and this sort of activity is

not carried out. May I pay tribute to my right honourable friend and

his actions last week. Has he made any representation to South Africa,

Mozambique, Zambia to put pressure on Zimbabwe to ensure fair and free

elections? Yes, and we continue to do so. We're also working with the

African as well to put pressure on Zimbabwe as well. The British Deputy

ambassador met in March to discuss the immigration rules, and we have

updated our travel advice. UK citizens have already been refused

entry because of this ban, which they widely condemned. It says

people should contact the Israeli embassy, but shouldn't the Foreign

Secretary be doing this to say that people should not be restricted from

travelling simply because they wish to enforce international law in

banning goods to settlements? We have offered consular assistance. Is

the honourable gentleman will know, the immigration policy of Israel is

a matter for them, and we firmly oppose boycotts and sanctions

against them. That is clearly a two-way street. Many countries have

banned people from entering and deporting people. Doesn't this

underline how right the government was to warn the UN Human Rights

Council of its bias against Israel? I think he is right in his verdict

on the UN Human Rights Council. I thought it was preposterous that

there should be a motion condemning Israel's conduct, when in that

region of Syria we have seen the most appalling barbarity conducted

by the Assad regime, which is the point they UN was rightly making.

Could he tell the House what questions he is asking of the

government of Israel, in particular has he asked what kinds of activity

would lead to someone being denied entry? Particularly when they Crown

Office's own website discourages financial dealings with settlements.

Is he saying if you advocate that, you're likely to be denied entry to

Israel? Has he asked that? We are seeking clarity as to how the law

would be applied in practice, but as he will appreciate, the Israeli

government, like ours, already has a wide discretion about how to apply

immigration laws. What is the policy on goods and services produced in

the settlements in the occupied Palestinian Territories? Our policy,

as he will know, is that consumers should have the right to judge for

themselves whether or not they wish to purchase them, which is the

policy that has been pursued by the government for many years. A Foreign

Office minister has previously describing the situation as

apartheid, and settlement endorsement is a form of extremism.

Could he tell the House today whether the right honourable member

for Rutland would fall foul of this new law if he attempted travel

there? I do not believe that my right honourable friend has said

anything of the kind, or called for any such boycott, and I do not

believe in a second he would be interrupted if you chose to go to

Israel. The policy of the government is unchanged, we are opposed to the

legal settlements and we believe they are an obstacle to beat. I have

said that many times already in this House, but I am happy to repeat it.

The main aim of the boycott movement is to delegitimise the state of

Israel, so will the government continue to strongly oppose it? We

certainly shall. Has the Foreign Secretary had any indication that

such a ban might be extended to those who ban goods from the

occupied Golan Heights? And does the Foreign Secretary agree that the UK

Government's refusal to support a resolution condemning it increases

that likelihood? With great respect, and made very clear what I thought

was the profound absurdity of D9 Singh Israeli conduct in that region

at a time when we are seeing absolute barbarism conducted by the

Assad regime against the people of Syria. -- D9 to denounce Israeli

conduct. I met earlier this month with the Polish Foreign Minister and

many others. Given this government's record of tackling slavery, does he

welcomed the modern slavery conference in Warsaw, as a signal of

how we can work together to deal with this? This Home Office funded

conference and the workshop going with it was the culmination of an

intense period of government activity on these issues, and as a

result of the workshop we have strengthened regional cooperation to

tackle modern slavery in Central and Eastern Europe.

Does my right honourable friend recognise a sign of our high level

of engagement with Poland and a signal that it is entirely possible

to have constructive and cordial discussions with our European

friends even as Brexit is being discussed? It was exactly that and I

am pleased to say that over 120 people attended including

representatives of UK and punish businesses along with universities

and think tanks, parliaments, media outlets, cultural institutions and

the polish diaspora from the UK. In the wake of Brexit I have been

concerned over a rise in hate crime and subsequent insecurity felt by

our Polish community. I was sad to read of a report in a local

newspaper of a Polish born mother in the North East Saint when she speaks

Polish to her daughter I cannot guarantee I would feel safer. Can

the Minister clarify what steps he is taking with his Polish

counterpart is taking with his Polish counterparts to reassure

Polish communities that he had cramp is not acceptable and will not be

tolerated in the UK? Following a deplorable spike after the

referendum I am pleased to say the number of these reported crimes has

significantly declined. We have been working closely with our Polish

counterparts, reassuring them on every opportunity and we did so very

publicly at the forum itself. The Polish community constitute the

largest component of EU nationals in the UK and by far the largest

percentage in Scotland. The Minister and the Foreign Secretary have said

they are known for their cosmopolitan, pro-immigration

attitudes. Can he think of anything on the eve of Brexit with better

enhance the relationship going into negotiations than to unilaterally

and immediately consolidate the position of the 3 million EU

nationals in this country and isn't that something the government should

do now? I am confident that when the starting gun for Brexit is fired

tomorrow that the issue he mentions will be an essential part of the

negotiations that will follow. Does the Minister believe that Poland

deserves congratulations as a front line state against an increasingly

fractious Russia for being one of the only five Nato members to meet

the minimum level of 2% expenditure of GDP and does he think it would

send a good signal to Russia if the Foreign Secretary were to throw his

considerable weight behind a Polish candidate to be next

Secretary-General of Nato, rather than a member of the comfortable

club of the usual suspects? If I might say so, the manner in which he

expresses his views is very characteristic of my honourable

friend, but I am confident that even though we are going to leave the

European Union, the United Kingdom will remain a force for good in the

defence and security of Eastern Europe and we will increase or

engagement on all levels. As the minister received the same

representation that we received from the Polish embassy and other

European embassies on the difficulties that many EU nationals

are fun with this 85 page form they have the complete in order to apply

for permanent residency in the UK? Has he relayed these concerns to the

Home Office is the mark he doesn't even know about it. The Secretary of

State does not know about it. Will he, in that case, will he and

perhaps the Shadow Secretary of State accept the challenge and try

to fill this form in and see how they get on? I have to say that I

have not received such representation, but I look forward

to racing it when I next see the Polish ambassador which I on regular

occasions. Number four, Mr Speaker. As of the House will know,

significant progress has been made in liberating the city of Mosul,

which will be a symbolic landmark in defeating diversion in Iraq. We are

concerned for those of the Yazidi community held by Daesh. The only

way to protect minorities is to defeat Daesh and establish strong

government and lasting peace. I thank him for his answer but can I

ask what support could be given to Yazidi women when they are released

and can you confirm that evidence will be taken from them so we can

accurately record the genocide of the Yazidi people? She makes an

important point. In the short term we are providing refugee assistance

and resettlement schemes including Gateway, mandate and children at

risk, including funds in the United Nations programmes. In the long

term, the Foreign Secretary, along with his Iraqi and Belgian

counterparts, have launched a campaign to bring Daesh the Justice

and this seeks support of victims, including CDs. The honourable

gentleman will know that went Yazidi women are released, they have

difficulty accessing the medical services they need and the

psychiatric services they need the southern Germany has flown the needs

of the plane loads of Yazidi women in the country for treatment. Can

Britain undertake the same thing? She raises an important point. We

have programmes that bring those who have been affected to the UK as

well. We are also investing funds into programmes in country as well.

I would be delighted to write to her with details of what we are doing.

The brutalisation of the UCD by Daesh has been a deliberate attempt

to destroy the Yazidi people. A UCD advocate organisation estimates that

35 mass graves have been found. What support my right honourable friend

present to collate and evidence these graves? This is something that

the Foreign Secretary is leading on. It will take time. We need to be

patient because it is important we collect forensic examinations,

preserve evidence and take testimonies as well. We will bring

those to account, those people who have committed these atrocities.

Will the Minister join with me in welcoming the establishment of a

psychological training centre for former Daesh sex slaves at the

University of Delaware, the first of its kind in the region? What support

from the UK Government give to this ground-breaking, unit? She

illustrates it is one example of how Iraq needs to step forward and move

on from the period where minorities and ethnic groups were not

represented in Iraq. If we are to make a success once Daesh is

removed, it is important that facilities like this are there to

support those affected. Most importantly, we need an inclusive

government image of the groupings are not isolated and are not

persecuted in the way they have been. It has been almost a year

since the House of Commons voted to express its desire for the

atrocities against the Yazidi people to be described as a genocide. At

the time the government said it would not rush to judgment, it would

allow the legal process to take its course. Can the Minister update is

on the process of those legal proceedings and when the government

anticipates the genocide against the Yazidi people will be recognised as

such? I myself have said that I believe that war crimes have taken

place, but it is not my judgment which counts. It is that of the

International Criminal Court. When this was put to the International

Criminal Court in 2014 we were vetoed by Russia and China. It is

important we tried making the case and it is important we hold the

perpetrators to account. May I congratulate the Minister on his

actions last week. I was lucky enough to visit northern Iraq to

meet some of the UCD in some of the refugee camps. What resources are we

putting in place to make sure not just them but others can get back to

their homes once we have defeated Daesh? He raises two important

points, the work that is happening in northern Iraq. We have put

forward an extra ?40 million in order to provide assistance to those

displaced people, but we should make it very clear that, in the urge to

return to their original house and communities, it must be done in line

with Iraqi authorities because we are concerned about the first

explicit devices are being placed their cars and more distress and

time and death as well. -- improvised explosive devices. May I

pay tribute to the Minister for his extraordinary courage last Thursday.

As the farmer -- family of PC Palmer said this weekend, there was nothing

more you could have done. They are grateful he was not hurt. Mr

Speaker, Yazidi women including girls as young as nine have been

raped and kidnapped and sold into slavery by Daesh. If proper

mechanisms are not established to investigate these crimes, evidence

and witnesses will be lost and the victims will never have their day in

court. What is the government doing to prevent this and can the Minister

tell us how he is injuring the perpetrators of these heinous crimes

are being brought to justice? I am grateful for her kind remarks. I was

one of many who step forward on that dark day and our thoughts and

prayers remain with the families and friends of the victims, including

our own PC Keith Palmer. With regard to this, she raises an important

point. We have not announced were thrilled the exact details of the

work we are doing in order to collect evidence because there is

fear that there would be those who would try to interrupt it. There are

organisations working quietly behind the scenes in order to collect the

forensic evidence they need, to preserve the evidence as well and to

collect those testimonies. It will take time but it is not broadcast

for fear that people will try to disrupt it. Number five, sir. Mr

Speaker, we are aware of reports that Hezbollah continues to amass an

arsenal of weapons and this is in direct contravention to the UN

Security Council resolution 1559 and 1701. In addition to the difference

in Syria, there is a risk of the conflict between Israel and

Hezbollah returning. If what happened in 2006 were repeated, it

would not just devastate 11 on what would be destabilising for the

region. I thank the Minister for his response. This month, the renamed

Defence Minister said Hezbollah is not capable of producing rockets

which can hit any part of Israel and reports have emerged that Iran has

established rocket factories under the control of Hezbollah. What steps

is he taking to stop the Iranian unconstrained financing of terror?

Mr Speaker, the involvement of Iran and its proxy influences across the

region is of huge concern not least in London on. We are looking at

these reports carefully indeed. I should also say that Hezbollah,

which has a political involvement as part of the Lebanese government

itself need to move forward and be constructive. It is thanks to the

destructors are Hezbollah and they're blocking decisions in the

Lebanese government that made this country was without a president for

two years. What urgent action can be taken to counter the Iranian

malevolent involvement in destabilising the Middle East?

Already we have heard reference to Hezbollah, but Iran is also arming

Hamas into Gaza with rockets aimed specifically at Israeli communities

within Israel, across the border from Gaza? What action will be taken

to stop this? We are now engaging with Iran on a level we have not

done for over a decade. Thanks to the agreement, the nuclear

agreement, which was made. It means we could have forthright and Frank

conversations. We have made it clear that if Iran wants to join the

international community and we want to see stability in the Middle East

than it needs to stop having influence in the areas she refers

to. In welcoming my honourable friend and his earlier answer, would

he accept that in 2006, the decision by Israel to form all parts of

Lebanon, including those represented by people who have been fighting

Hezbollah for more than a generation, catapulted Hezbollah

from a section or group of extremists ride into the heart of

the power base of the government of 11 on? I visited the country after

the attacks had taken place and the devastation was huge indeed. I think

it is important arrests for us not to go down that road again. I pay

tribute to the United Nations interim force in Lebanon who have

done an amazing job in reducing tensions between the two countries.

I thank the Minister for his statement. One way of reducing the

supply of weapons to Hezbollah is to stop it at its source. Can Mr

indicate what discussions he has had with the gym in relation to tunnels

and the access they have for bringing weapons in?

He is right that we need to work together with our partners across

the Middle East, and we are engaging with the gypped and other countries

as well. Number six. -- with Egypt's. I will answer six and 11

together. I had excellent meetings last week at the White House with

the State Department, with Vice President Pence and others, and we

discussed shared objectives on Russia, Nato, free trade and others.

There are 212,000 Americans living in the UK, 715,000 Brits living in

America, and Americans when visiting the UK spend more than any other

nation. Does he agree that this shows the relationship is very much

alive? This is a long-standing extraordinary relationship that goes

from strength to strength, and honourable members may know that

trade with United States, exports rose by 20%, and it is the absolute

determination of the new US administration to do a free-trade

deal that will take those trade figures even further forward. Having

visited the Cabinet War rooms earlier this morning with

youngsters, it was a timely reminder that the US is one of our closest

allies and a strong relationship between the countries remains vital.

Does he agree that it must be a key part of our new geopolitical role

outside the EU going forward? I passionately agree with that, and

indeed it is the function of the UK to be the intermediary between our

European friends and partners and the United States, and to campaign

for the things that matter deeply to us all, the transatlantic defence

alliance that has kept the peace in our continent for the last 70 years,

and of course our global free trade, which is of huge value to all of us.

Can the Foreign Secretary take this opportunity to praise the democracy

of the United States and its independent judiciary, which have

rejected the plans by President Trump to bring in bands on refugees,

and at the same time the Congress has seen sense and not approved his

proposals to abolish Obama care -- Obamacare. Many people

around the world to criticise the United States, many people who are

visibly anti-American in their attitudes will look at the balance

of power represented by that decision, and see that this is a

mature democratic system in which we can confide our trust. But what

damage is done by fantastical under electric -- ridiculous outbursts

like those of President Trump at GCHQ? Can he assure that the

valuable intelligence relationship between us and the United States is

not comprised by the current incumbent of the White House? The

damage done by such remarks can be likened to that of a bug against a

rhinoceros. It is not something that will make any difference to our

fundamental relationship, which is of great international importance.

As for the assertion that there was some sort of collusion by GCHQ to

bug the presidential candidate, they think that has been described as

absurd and ridiculous. Can I just bring the Foreign Secretary down to

earth to the core element of the Anglo-American relationship being

based on five eyes and intelligence. President Trump's allegation

repeated from Fox News was not a bug rhinoceros, it was deeply damaging,

and I would be grateful if the Foreign Secretary would tell the

House exactly what comments he made to refute that with the president or

senior members of the White House? I must respectfully disagree with my

honourable friend's characterisation of the episode. I believe it has

certainly done no nasty damage to our relationship, certainly not to

the special relationship, and not to intelligence sharing which will

carry on between our countries. A relationship which is of huge value

to the security of the West. As for the allegations themselves, let me

repeat, the ridiculous and should be ignored. Let me welcome the

Secretary of State back from his trip to Washington. More than ever

it is vital that Britain uses, in his words, the extraordinary

relationship to make sure America make the right decisions on the

world stage. He has consistently told us we should be optimistic

about the outcome. Two days ago he told us they have an agenda closed

areas, the United States is back. Well, with that in mind, can he tell

us specifically what impact does he believe that today's presidential

order will have on the climate change agreement, and during his

trip to Washington, what representations did he make about

that executive order? She will know that the UK Government has played a

leading role in securing the Paris agreement on climate change. The

United States remains a supporter of that and in the course of my

conversations with the US Secretary of State, I received some

encouragement. I don't want to exaggerate the outcome of the

conversations, but I received some encouragement that, as in so many

other dossiers, the US is moving from a position that we saw during

the campaign, when we heard some remarks that came across as being

perhaps out of line with UK Government, and their thinking is

more closely aligned with powers, particularly on climate change. I am

not sure he really understands that by lifting curbs on power plant

admissions, today's executive order will make it practically impossible

for the US to hit the targets agreed in Paris. He said he received

encouragement, but one wonders whether he raised the issue in

Washington and was ignored, or did not raise it at all. One thing is

clear,... I did raise it! I am very pleased to hear about. It is a shame

then that we have such little influence but today they are signing

the executive order. It is a gnat against the rhinoceroses! It is

unfair to call him a gnat. The only way he will get listened to by

President Trump is if he is prepared to stand up and challenge. And begin

to tell the Trump administration that we will not stand by while they

wreck the Paris climate change agreement? I do think she's being

far too pessimistic. We were told previously by the US presidential

candidate backed Nato was obsolete, we know here they are 100% behind

them. We were told the agreement with -- agreement with Iran, that

was going to be stopped, but that is continuing. As for climate change, I

think she is once again being too pessimistic. Let us wait and see. We

have heard the mutterings of the right honourable lady. Let us see

what the American administration actually does. They think she will

be pleasantly surprised, if she remains intellectually honest on all

respects. I thank my right honourable friend

for his question on the conflict in Ukraine, which are very much with

the Russians and they bear the overwhelming responsibility for the

loss of life that has been taking place there. I was pleased to raise

the matter with my Polish counterpart during a visit to Kiev a

few weeks ago. The crucial thing for progress in Ukraine is not just that

the Russians desist from supporting military activity and pull-out of

Crimea, but also that the Ukrainians themselves... But is it not clear

that unless we do more to help our Ukrainian friends, Russia will

continue with impunity to seek to destabilise Ukraine? And the Western

Ukrainian... Perhaps we should continue expropriating Russian

aspects in the United Kingdom, starting with football clubs? I am

grateful for that, we already impose sanctions on Russia for their

activities in Ukraine. Will he agree with me and the Secretary General

that the president's executive order implementing a travel ban and --

from... Order. I think he was seeking to take part in an exchange

in the Ukraine, in anticipation of is not reaching his question. If

anyone else wishes to take part in an orderly way? It is clear that the

Russians have behaved disgracefully in Ukraine. As he has already

referred to, they have led to many deaths and there are many people

detained incommunicado, human rights abuses going on and the

expropriation of assets. The administration regularly boasts

about how we have done well in making sure there are sanctions and

the European Union. How will we do that than we are no longer a member

of the European Union? He will know that there will be a white Paper

very soon regarding a bell and how we will continue to take part in

joint sanctions with our friends and partners across the Channel. Despite

some improvement to the security situation in Sudan, it remains

concerning. Particularly in the Darfur and two various regions. In

South Sudan the situation is much worse, as fighting continues across

the country and humanitarian becomes increasingly desperate. Sudan has

been appointed as the vice-chair of the Organisation for the Prohibition

of chemical and at the same time that they are

considering -- weapons... The use of chemical weapons has been looked

into, and there is no firm evidence to say that that is taking place.

But we will continue investigating. I'm sure he will share my concerns

about the recent attack on aid workers in South Sudan that left

seven dead. What support does he believe the UK can give the United

Nations to allow aid agencies support? I visited the country at

the end of last year. We now deploy 400 British troops, one of our

largest peacekeeping operations in the world now. It is a complex

conflict, not just between the two tribes, but lots of conflicts across

the country. We are pleased to be able to support the work of the

church, which is trying to reconcile the sides. Can I thank the right

honourable gentleman for his actions last week. Is he aware of

allegations that two people are using British passports to travel

around Africa and elsewhere, and given the terrible situation being

partly man-made, does he think that is appropriate? Thank you for your

comments. I will certainly look into this. They both have huge

responsibility for what is a man-made conflict that is taking

place will stop let us not mince our words. The problem in South Sudan,

this is a mineral rich country that could be one of the richest in

Africa, but they need to reconcile their differences. It is the

youngest country on the planet at the moment, but it's first used few

steps it has taken have been dire cos of the poor leadership between

Regional organisations have proved an effective in relieving the

misery. Why is that? My honourable friend makes an important

observation but they are getting better at recognising that countries

in Africa must honour the constitution, you cannot hand over

power to your son or daughter and the best example of that was in the

Gambia thought it was the neighbouring countries who step

forward to make sure there was a peaceful transition to a new

president. There was a report published by and is the

International which found evidence suggesting the use of -- use of

chemical weapons by Sudanese forces in Darfur but which has been met by

virtual silence from his government. Can the minister explain which

international partners he is working with and can he tell us how this

government will ensure that these are deeply disturbing allegations

are fully investigated and the perpetrators brought to justice? I

am happy to look into this in more detail. Our understanding is this

came to the attention of the United Nations and they have done

investigations as well. It is difficult to collect evidence simply

because we do not have access to the country as we would like to. I will

redouble my efforts to see what I can find out. Despite some positive

steps, the human rights situation in Belarus remains of serious concern.

We continue to raise the LaRouche and rides with the authorities and

use every opportunity to call on Belarus to establish a moratorium on

the use of the death penalty. We'll might read honourable friend joint

calls led by the chairman of the Senedd armed services committee for

the Belarussian president to unconditionally release of the many

hundreds of people brutally arrested in Belarus over the last few days

and can he also consider talking to the EU to ask them to rethink their

decision to lift the personal sanctions against the ruling Belarus

elite? Following the demonstrations on the 25th of March, on the 26th,

the front office issued a statement calling on Belarus on authorities to

respect and uphold the right to freedom of association, Assembly and

expression and the release of those peaceful demonstrators still

detained, amongst those originally detained were two British nationals

who I am pleased to say have been released. Number ten. The government

does not agree with recent changes to US immigration policy and that is

not the approach the UK would take. Therefore, while the Foreign

Secretary agree with me and the Secretary General of Amnesty

International that the Executive order by President Trump,

implementing a travel ban on people from six countries and certain

refugees is unconstitutional, inhuman and illogical? I think I

have made my position on the travel ban clear. Divisive, discriminatory

and wrong is the formula we can put after exhaustive research of the

thesaurus last time. That was agreed. Mr Speaker, UK firmly

opposes the death penalty in all circumstances. We have made this

clear to all countries who have this in place, including United Arab

Emirates. Jennifer is an overseas domestic worker working in the

Emirates in order to provide for her two children in the Philippines. In

a struggle with her employer, who was trying to rape her, she killed

him and she now faces either execution or a fine of 100 camels's

value, over $60,000, which she has no prospect of paying. What can the

Minister do to ensure that this barbaric justice system comes into

the 21st century and respects the human rights of people, especially

overseas domestic workers? I will certainly look into this particular

consular case and get back to the honourable lady. I would make it

clear that many of these countries in the Gulf and across the Middle

East are advancing their justice systems, but many countries have

only been in existence as centralised countries with

independence from less than 50 years or 60 years. That is not an excuse

to say that they should continue to have these outdated practices, but I

will do my best to provide an update to her. Number 14.

The UK shares a long-standing and deep friendship with India covering

economic ties, defence and security and people to people links. We want

this promised possible relationship after Brexit and that is why the

Prime Minister visited India in December, her first foreign visit

outside of Europe. Strong relations between our two nations should be

welcomed, especially given the potential trading opportunities, but

we should talk about concerns as well as successes. What discussions

has his office had around the issue of Kashmir and human rights? My

honourable friend raises an important point and we remain

concerned about the reports of unrest in Indian administered

Kashmir. I raised this issue of Kashmir with the Minister of State

during his visit to London on the 16th of March and will continue to

monitor developments in this area. This year marks the UK- in the year

of culture. Could the Minister said what plans this government as to

celebrate this important event? -- UK- India. We have a range of events

coming up to celebrate the year of culture, but as evil no, we a visit

from the Finance minister in February showed the strength of our

relationship when he visited Buckingham Palace where Her Majesty

the Queen hosted an event celebrating the year of culture.

Number one. I wanted to paint my own tribute to my right honourable

friend and ministerial colleague, The Member For Bournemouth East, and

of course also to the innocents who lost their lives or who were injured

last week. Over the centuries, many people have tried to attack this

Parliament and none has shaken our faith in our values of freedom and

democracy, which in form or policies. My immediate priority is

to play my part in ensuring that article 15 moves smoothly, building

a new relationship, partnership with our European friends. I visited East

Africa, the United States and Turkey and I aim to take forward our

campaign against Daesh. Can I join the Foreign Secretary in his tribute

to our courageous friend, the right honourable member for Bournemouth

East. Following the vote in the US Senedd yesterday, what assessment

has the Foreign Secretary made of the accession of Montenegro to Nato?

I think might right honourable friend because if I may say so it is

another example of ways in which the influence of the United Kingdom is

being felt in our conversations with our American friends and partners.

There is strong support for Nato on Capitol Hill and it is absolutely

right that they should now be moving forward with the integration of

Montenegrin into the North Atlantic alliance. I am worried about the

Foreign Secretary, as to whether he is not excluded from Cabinet

decision-making, as to when he told Robert Heston on Saturday that

nobody from Brexit would be totally OK, what his Cabinet colleague was

simultaneously telling another station it would be bad for Britain

in Europe. One estimate is forecast, official, has he seen, or any, which

led him to believe and to say that no deal from Brexit would be

perfectly OK? I think the right honourable gentleman will recognise

the promised is going into these negotiations in a spirit of optimism

and positivity that I think he could learn a little bit from. I have no

doubt that there will be a great deal for this country, because it

predicted for this country is what is finally in the interests of the

rest of our friends and partners on the other side of the Channel who

have a huge amount to gain. Could the Secretary of State kindly set of

what discussions he has had with his international counterparts in

relation to the campaign against Daesh? I am grateful we had the

counter Daesh coalition meeting last week and the House will know that

huge progress is being made. Their territory in Iraq has been reduced

by about 60%. In Syria by about 30% and the UK is at the forefront of

this effort in concert with our American allies and the coalition of

68 countries. According to the Basic law of Hong Kong, the ultimate aim

is for the city to select its chief Executive by universal suffrage, yet

two days ago a new chief Executive was chosen by a committee which

comprised of 0.03% of Hong Kong's registered voters. As we mark the

20th anniversary of the handover, how can the House be confident that

the Chinese government is committed to progress to a genuinely

democratic elections in Hong Kong? The new chief Executive was elected

by the election committee and we respect his decision. However, we

consistently took the view that the best way to secure the future of one

country - two systems is through a transition to universal suffrage and

meet the needs of Hong Kong. Mike right honourable friend has made

clear the concerns about brain state sponsored terrorism in destabilising

the state of Israel and the Middle East. In consequence, could he

confirm that ensured that Iran recognises the right of the state of

Israel to exist is front and for of future engagements with that

country? My honourable friend is right. This is an opportunity for

Iran to re-engage following the nuclear deal and show it is meeting

21st century standards. I am pleased we have fired the Airbus deal as an

example of how commercially we can work together but we also need to

work together on governance and recognising the boundaries of

states. It is over three years since my constituent and the other channel

ASICs detained and imprisoned in India for a crime they did not

commit. Will he speak to the counterparts and suggest the men are

deported? It is an easy way out. I note the honourable gentleman is

concern for the welfare of his constituents, as we all are. The

Foreign Secretary and I have raised this case and we are providing

consular support and I have written to the families to say aye stand

ready to meet with them ahead of the verdict. Mike right honourable

friend could outline his priorities during the 62nd presidency of the

Security Council this month? The theme has been conflict prevention

in Africa with a focus on Lake Chad, South Sudan and Somalia. The UK has

also held an open debate on modern slavery. The presidency would have

been action orientated, transparent and consultative. We have cheered to

council meetings. Many honourable members on both sides of This House

have called for a ban on goods produced from the illegal

settlements in the West Bank. Does the Foreign Secretary think those

honourable members should be banned from travelling to Israel? I am sure

the honourable members who wish to travel to Israel will have

absolutely no difficulties, but it remains up to the Israeli

immigration authorities to decide who they choose to admit. In light

of the interim report and recommendations of the advisory

commission on retiring state in Burma, will he join with me and the

UNHCR and work toward an investigation into what is happening

against the Roman gay community. I feel Burma is a country that both

you and the honourable gentleman care about. Can I say that the UK

has helped deliver a UN human rights resolution council which sets up a

fact-finding mission to investigate US abuses and this will be composed

of independent international experts. -- investigate human rights

abuses. There was a petulant Thai red by the British mission which

ended with the threat and, I could, to adopt a policy of voting against

all resolutions concerning Israeli conduct in the occupied Palestinian

territories. The Secretary of State they declared that it is policy of

the government to oppose illegal settlements in the West Bank?

Yes. While we foster our relationships with European

countries is through the European Council of Europe. As we leave the

European Union, what role do the sea those councils playing and can be

deep in the relationships further? We continue to have important regard

for the Council of Europe and will continue to work with it and

consider it an important forum for the countries that attend meetings.

UK firms have been granted 194 licenses and made 3.3 billion in

arms sales to Saudi Arabia during the two years of war in Yemen,

eclipsing Yuki's efforts in aid. Can the Foreign Secretary claimed that

the licensing regime is moral and legitimate, and put more effort into

peace and war? We have the strongest and most rigorous criteria of any

country in the world, and there must be a clear risk of a serious

violation of international human rights and humanitarian law, and

that remains the position. Following the walk-out by members of the

Brexit select committee, does he agree that far from being gloomy, we

should agree with others that it would be more damaging to Europe

than the UK if there was not a success made out of Brexit? May I

congratulate him on the spirit he has taken, which is very much the

spirit the Prime Minister will adopt in negotiations, and I think our

friends and partners at the other side of the channel understand that.

It will be an opportunity for this country to get rid of some of the

burden regulations and I applaud the campaign I know he supports. How

will you ... If the UK is committed to doing

all it can to achieve a two state solution, is it not time to

recognise Palestine before that is too late? The Prime Minister and

myself have raised this and will continue to do so. We believe we are

opposed to demonstrations and continued illegal settlements at an

obstruction to peace. The Pakistani government announced its intention

to annex a sovereign part of India that it illegally occupies. What

representations has it taken to the Pakistani government that the UK

Government will oppose it? As he knows, we have good relations with

India and Pakistan. When it comes to issues of bilateral nature, it is

really up to the two countries to reach a settlement, not us to give a

solution as a mediator. But of course we encourage both sides to

maintain good relations. What would he say to President Putin about his

treatment of demonstrators that he got the chance today? I raised the

matter yesterday with the Russian Foreign Minister and my counterpart

Sergei Lavrov, using the case of a 17-year-old British National. Why

does Saudi Arabia consistently feature in the back story of

terrorists, as in the case of the one who struck here last week, and

what representations do we make to that country about it? The back

story of terrorists is the subject of continual analysis in respect of

the individual last week. That analysis has yet to be completed. It

goes without saying that there are discussions with our counterparts.

We make very plain our view that the struggle against terror is one that

we face jointly. Isn't it a bitter tragedy that the US, which has been

a beacon of democracy and tolerance for so long, has produced a

president whose comments and stands echo those of 80 years ago? Again,

if I may say so, I believe such analogies and comparisons trivialise

the tragedies of the 1930s. We have a very

different situation today, and are working with our partners to produce

the best outcomes. Would he join me in thanking the Libyan House

Representatives for their condolences after Wednesday's

dramatic event, and would he agree that active engagement with House

representatives is vital for getting a stable Libya? I agree with that,

and they fundamental thing has got to be a discussion between the two

sides, and we certainly believe that the general has to be part of the

solution, but cannot be the whole solution. There must be a political

and constitutional revolution to the crisis. Everyone wants to see the

territory liberated from the murders of Islamic State, but is he aware of

the deep concern over the recent air strikes which so many innocents have

died in, including children and the fact there was no attempt to save

the children. All the Foreign Secretary make representations in

those circumstances of important it is to try to minimise civilian

tragedies? -- will the Foreign Secretary make

representations? I think he's repairing to the Americans.

There have been numerous barbaric air strikes by the Assad regime in

the United States of investigating and will produce a full