Written question asked by Tony Lloyd (Labour) on Friday, 13 October 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 October 2023 (named day). It was answered by Leo Docherty (Conservative) on Monday, 23 October 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Pakistan: Detainees

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 allegations of involvement of the Pakistani (a) intelligence services and (b) military in (i) enforced disappearances and (ii) secret detention in that country.

Answer: We engage regularly with the Government of Pakistan to advance key priorities and interests, including on human rights and the rule of law. The Foreign Secretary raised the current human rights situation in Pakistan with Prime Minister Kakar on 25 September. The UK strongly condemns any instances of enforced disappearances and urges Pakistan to investigate any allegations and prosecute those responsible. We continue to encourage progress towards the criminalisation of enforced disappearance in Pakistan. Where there are allegations of human rights violations, we expect these to be fully investigated in line with international human rights law.

Secondary information