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Written question asked by Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 16 June 2015, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 June 2015. It was answered by Tobias Ellwood (Conservative) on Monday, 22 June 2015 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Iraq: Christianity

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with the government of Iraq on protection of the Christian minority in that country.

Answer

We continue to condemn in the strongest terms the atrocities committed by the self-styled ISIL against all communities throughout the areas under its control. The human rights situation for many living in areas under ISIL control is gravely concerning.

I visited Iraq on 12 February and encouraged Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi to continue progress on ensuring that all minorities are represented and their rights protected. We welcome the commitments that Prime Minister al-Abadi has made to inclusivity, to protecting Iraqi citizens, addressing human rights abuses and holding those responsible to account.

We are working closely with the Iraqi government and our international coalition partners to assist and protect civilians wherever we can. We will continue to explore what further support we might be able to provide to vulnerable groups and internally displaced persons.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
2709
Session
2015-16
Subjects
Iraq Christianity
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk