Saudi Arabia: Human Rights Debate

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Lord Singh of Wimbledon

Main Page: Lord Singh of Wimbledon (Crossbench - Life peer)

Saudi Arabia: Human Rights

Lord Singh of Wimbledon Excerpts
Wednesday 21st November 2018

(5 years, 11 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Baroness Goldie Portrait Baroness Goldie
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In relation to my noble friend’s first question, we do not comment on intelligence matters, as I think he will understand. Given the recent disclosures by Saudi Arabia in relation to the court proceedings against 11 people, the United Kingdom Government will monitor carefully how that trial proceeds. It is a sovereign, independent country with an independent justice system, but we will watch carefully what takes place. The noble Lord will be aware that we have said repeatedly that we are totally opposed to the use of the death penalty in any circumstances.

Lord Singh of Wimbledon Portrait Lord Singh of Wimbledon (CB)
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My Lords, as revealed in this morning’s news, President Trump has made it clear that, as far as he is concerned, considerations of trade are more important than human rights in Saudi Arabia. Can the Minister confirm that our Government do not share the same callous view?

Baroness Goldie Portrait Baroness Goldie
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If the noble Lord is suggesting that, for some reason, the UK would prioritise trade over human rights, that would absolutely not happen. The relationships that we build with countries, including Saudi Arabia, through trade and security links and through bringing together institutions such as educational research establishments allow us to make greater progress with those countries on the issue of human rights.