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Written question asked by James Clappison (Conservative) on Monday, 2 June 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 4 June 2008. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Tuesday, 10 June 2008 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Algeria: Christianity

Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received of (a) steps taken by the Algerian government against Christian denominations and (b) the prosecution of Habiba Konider for possession of a Bible; what his policy is on the account taken of the need for toleration of all faiths by participants in the proposed EU-Mediterranean partnership; and what representations he has made to the Algerian government on these matters.
Answer

I am aware of reports emerging from Algeria concerning the closure of unauthorised churches and the detention of Christians accused of evangelisation. Our officials in Algiers and London continue to monitor developments. On 30 May, Foreign and Commonwealth Office officials in London met with Christian Solidarity Worldwide, a non-governmental organisation which raises awareness of restrictions on the freedom of religion and belief across the world, including in Algeria.In respect of Habiba Konider, I am aware that she is a 37-year-old Algerian national, currently facing prosecution for evangelisation. She was allegedly found in possession of more than 10 copies of the bible and was, as a result, arrested on 29 March 2008. The unauthorised possession of multiple copies of religious books is considered an offence according to the new Algerian law on the practice of worship by non-Muslims, adopted in February 2006. The trial is ongoing, with the court having suspended a verdict pending further investigation.The situation of the right to freedom of religion and belief in Algeria was raised on 14 April during Algeria's examination under the UN Human Rights Council's Universal Periodic Review, which the UK participated in. Additionally, the EU-Algeria Association agreement, which came into force in September 2005, restates that the principles and fundamental human rights set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is an essential part of the agreement and must be followed by both signatories. The EU will continue to raise questions of human rights in Algeria.The Government are involved in EU discussions on the proposal to upgrade the Barcelona Process in light of President Sarkozy's proposals for a Union for the Mediterranean. At this stage the discussions are focused on the governance and activities of the new arrangements. The Government are keen that the new arrangements will better advance the implementation of the Barcelona Declaration, including on promoting dialogue, respect for human rights and a greater understanding between cultures.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
477 c128-9W; 208666
Session
2007-08
Subjects
Algeria Christianity
Link
View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk