Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their latest assessment of the (1) economic, (2) political, and (3) security, situation in Zimbabwe.

The Zimbabwean economy faces severe challenges largely due to corruption, poor fiscal policies and economic mismanagement by the Government. Our Embassy in Harare continues to monitor developments closely, encouraging the Government of Zimbabwe to focus on taking urgent coordinated measures to stabilise the economy while protecting the poorest.

The UK remains concerned about the current political situation in Zimbabwe, particularly human rights violations and the pattern of arrests of prominent opposition, civil society figures and journalists. We remain clear that the Government of Zimbabwe must meet its international and domestic obligations by: respecting the rule of law and the freedoms and rights enshrined in the Zimbabwean Constitution; safeguarding human rights; and committing to genuine political and economic reform for the benefit of all Zimbabweans.

On 9 June, the Minister for Africa spoke to Foreign Minister Shava. The Minister for Africa emphasised our human rights concerns and the need for reform. He also discussed potential opportunities for the UK and Zimbabwe, including in relation to trade and climate change (COP 26).

While the human rights situation is worrying, the security situation remains stable. We will continue to speak out, both privately and in public, where we have concerns, and, work alongside the international community to support a better future for all Zimbabweans.