Written question asked by Fabian Hamilton (Labour) on Monday, 23 January 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 January 2023 (named day). It was answered by David Rutley (Conservative) on Monday, 30 January 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Venezuela: Politics and Government

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the implications for his policies of the approach adopted by Nicolas Maduro to the Venezuelan Catholic Church.

Answer: Views held by Nicolas Maduro about the Roman Catholic Church in Venezuela have no particular implications for UK policies. We have on frequent occasions made clear our concern for the Venezuelan people and that we consider Mr Maduro and his regime in large part responsible for the economic and humanitarian crises afflicting the country. The United Kingdom is a determined champion of freedom of speech and is firmly committed to the principle that freedom of speech is essential for the good government of any country. Representatives of the Catholic Church have a distinguished record in many countries of speaking truth to those in power and of speaking up for people whose concerns are not being taken with the seriousness they deserve.

Secondary information