Business of the House

Jim Shannon Excerpts

Thursday 4th December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Let me pay tribute to the interesting work that South Side Studios does. The Government remain committed to the rejuvenation of our high streets and to tackling vacancy, and we support innovative solutions to this issue, such as meanwhile use and rental auctions. It is a matter for local authorities to consider temporary planning permission, but I hope that my hon. Friend’s local authority has heard about this matter. Once again, she is right to raise these matters—she shows that on this issue, as on many others, she is on the side of her constituents.

[Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)]

May I thank the Leader of the House for his positive answers about the persecuted across the world each week? They are much appreciated. I am deeply concerned by the increasing targeted attacks on Christians in northern Mozambique, with more than 20 Christians killed in the past month. Will the Leader of the House join me in condemning those appalling attacks? Will he urge the Foreign Secretary to outline what concrete actions the Government will take to ensure the protection of Christian communities and the promotion of freedom of religion or belief in Mozambique?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising this matter in the very sensitive way that he always does. The UK is committed to defending freedom of religion or belief for all, and we condemn attacks on religious grounds wherever they should happen and for whatever reason. The British high commission in Mozambique, alongside international partners, regularly engages with the relevant authorities and religious leaders to address violence and instability in the region. I encourage him to attend the debate on international human rights in Westminster Hall next week, at which I am sure his wise contribution will be appreciated.