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Written question asked by Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 March 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 23 March 2023. It was answered by Anne-Marie Trevelyan (Conservative) on Wednesday, 29 March 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.


Punjab: Diplomatic Service

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the impact of (a) political tensions and (b) internet blackouts in the state of Punjab in India on his Department's consular operations in that region.

Answer

We offer consular support and assistance to British nationals worldwide. Any individual in need of consular assistance can contact the nearest British High Commission or Consulate. Our travel advice provides consular contact numbers which, as always, are available 24/7.

We are not aware of any internet blackouts in the State of Punjab. Broadband services continue to operate as normal. The Punjab Government suspended all mobile internet services and some SMS and dongle in the territorial jurisdiction of Punjab from 19 March 2023 at 12:00. Mobile internet and SMS services have since been restored in all districts except Tarn Taran and Ferozepur. Broadband services have remained operational throughout.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
170701
Session
2022-23
Subjects
Diplomatic service Internet Politics and government Punjab
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk