Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what is their assessment of the level of terrorist activity in Karachi, Pakistan, and whether there is any involvement by Al Qaeda, Taliban and the Muttahida Quami Movement.

There is a high threat from terrorism and other violence throughout Pakistan, including Karachi. The British Government regularly reviews the security situation in the country and is aware of reports of attacks claimed by various militant groups in Karachi. The main terrorist threat continues to come from Tehrik-e Taleban Pakistan (TTP) who have a mainly anti-state focus but also maintain, and have stated, an intent to launch attacks on western interests. Although Al Qaeda is diminished in Pakistan and under severe pressure, it is still capable of devising sophisticated attacks. Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) is a political party.

The Government is committed to partnering Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, in the interests of both countries. We will continue to support Pakistan in developing its capacity to deal with terrorism, and in addressing its root causes.