Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what priority they place on the promotion of Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on freedom of religion or belief; and whether and when they intend to appoint a new Special Envoy to ensure that Article 18 forms an important part of their cross-departmental policies.

Recognising that human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated, this Government will champion freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) for all. No one should live in fear because of what they do, or do not believe in. Envoy roles are under Ministerial consideration and will be decided upon in due course. In the meantime, we continue to use the strength of our global diplomatic network, including dedicated staff within the FCDO, to promote and protect human rights, including FoRB, around the world.