Asked by: Lord Smith of Finsbury (Non-affiliated - Life peer)
Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the Governor of the British Virgin Islands in relation to the proposed referendum on same-sex marriage and partnerships; and whether they plan to instruct the Governor to intervene to ensure that international legal obligations are upheld.
Answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
As separate, largely self-governing jurisdictions with their own democratically-elected representatives, the British Overseas Territories are responsible for their own legislation regarding marriage and civil partnerships.
The UK Government has had several discussions with the Governor of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) about the Premier's plans for a referendum on same sex marriage and civil partnerships.
We continue to encourage the Overseas Territories to ensure their legislation delivers greater equality and is compliant with international human rights obligations.
Asked by: Lord Smith of Finsbury (Non-affiliated - Life peer)
Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Turkey about the opening of the Varosi beachfront in Cyprus; and what steps they intend to take to ensure that UN Resolutions 550, 789, and 2537 are upheld.
Answered by Baroness Sugg
The UK continues to be concerned by the announcement of 6 October to open the beach within the fenced-off area of Varosha, and the subsequent opening of the beach on 8 October. We have made representations to Turkey through our Embassy in Ankara both prior to and following the announcement. These have been reinforced by conversations held with the Turkish Representative at the UN in New York and with the Turkish Ambassador in London.
In response to the announcement, the UK called for the UN Security Council to hold closed consultations on the matter on 9 October. The UK continues to strongly support the numerous Security Council Resolutions covering the issue of Varosha, notably 550 (1984) and 789 (1992). In this regard, we support the UN Presidential Statement reaffirming its support for the relevant Security Council Resolutions and expressing deep concern regarding the announcement.
Asked by: Lord Smith of Finsbury (Non-affiliated - Life peer)
Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what funds in aid and development assistance have been made available to Bhutan in each of the past three years; and for what purpose.
Answered by Baroness Anelay of St Johns
The UK contributes to aid and assistance in Bhutan primarily through the EU. The EU development programme for Bhutan from 2007-2013 was €14 million and focused on support for renewable natural resources and enhancing good governance. The 2014-2020 programme is a €42 million package focused on strengthening civil society, supporting local governance and developing sustainable rural livelihoods by enhancing food and nutrition security and generating employment opportunities.
There was no bilateral spend in financial years 2013-14 or 2014-15. In financial year 2012-13 the UK spent:
• £15,000 on a high-level visit to the UK headed by the Bhutanese Chief Justice. The purpose of the visit was to develop relationships in the field of judicial and advocacy training, explore ways of developing cooperation and mutually beneficial trade links.
• £14,610 on a Chevening Scholarship for a Bhutanese journalism scholar.
Asked by: Lord Smith of Finsbury (Non-affiliated - Life peer)
Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the decision by the government of the United States to deny certain Ugandan officials entry into the United States following the passage of the Ugandan Anti-Homosexuality Act in February; whether they have plans to introduce similar measures in the United Kingdom; and whether they intend to encourage other European Union countries to enact similar measures.
Answered by Baroness Warsi
The UK shares the concerns of the US about the Anti-Homosexuality Act in Uganda and notes the US's recent decision to apply existing visa mechanisms, redirect some healthcare support, end support for a community policing project, and cancel a military aviation exercise in response to the passing of the legislation. The UK is working closely with international partners to register its concerns, to seek assurances about the protection of individuals, and to initiate dialogue about improving protection of minority rights.
The UK is engaging closely with civil society groups in Uganda working to support inclusivity, diversity, and tolerance, and to consult with them about the most appropriate next steps.
With our support, EU Heads of Mission in Kampala met the Ugandan government on 28 March to initiate a strengthened political dialogue under Article 8 of the Cotonou Agreement. Discussions are ongoing.