Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have, if any, to make representations to the government of India regarding fair treatment and due process for Bishop Paul Muniya of the Shalom Church in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, following his arrest on 23 February.

We are aware of the arrest of Bishop Paul Muniya and our network in India will continue to monitor developments, including legislation, related to religious conversions. However, we recognise that this is a matter for India and the Indian legal system.

The UK is committed to defending freedom of religion or belief for all and to the promotion of respect and tolerance between communities. Our High Commissioner regularly meets religious representatives, including Christian communities.

In general, where we have any issues, we raise them directly with the Government of India, including at Ministerial level.