Written question asked by Lord Maginnis of Drumglass (Ulster Unionist Party), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Howell of Guildford (Conservative) on Tuesday, 20 December 2011.

Iran: Camp Ashraf

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government how they intend to promote international scrutiny of Iran’s human rights record, with particular reference to the situation of refugees in Camp Ashraf and the Baha’i community in Iran.

Answer: The UK is committed to promoting international scrutiny of Iran's human rights record, including through the United Nations (UN) and other international fora. We particularly welcome the recent decision of the UN General Assembly to pass a resolution expressing deep concern at Iran's human rights record and calling for the Iranian authorities to take urgent action. The resolution passed with a high level of support, demonstrating deepening international concern at Iran’s human rights record. Following the storming of our embassy in Tehran on 29 November, the UK has downgraded diplomatic relations with Iran. However, we will maintain our firm stance on human rights, holding the Iranian authorities to account for any abuses, including the persecution of religious minorities such as the Baha’is. With our international partners and the UN, we also continue to monitor closely the situation at Camp Ashraf. We urge all sides to reach a peaceful, negotiated solution to the future of the residents of the camp. We urge the leadership of the camp to engage with the UN and the Government of Iraq, and for the Government of Iraq to respect the human rights of the residents, and to show flexibility over its deadline to close Camp Ashraf by the end of the year.

Secondary information