Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions the Minister for Africa held during his recent meeting with the Deputy Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives on gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights and sexual and reproductive rights.

The UK Government is committed to championing the human rights of women, girls, LGBT+ people, and those belonging to other marginalised groups. In my meeting with the Deputy Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives on 22 January, I raised a variety of issues relating to the UK-Nigeria bilateral relationship, including the importance of championing human rights, inclusive economic growth and supporting women's participation in politics. Through programmes and advocacy, the UK government is supporting women and girls affected by conflict in North-East Nigeria; helping girls access education; supporting women's economic empowerment; tackling gender-based violence; and improving access to health services.