Written question asked by Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Labour) on Monday, 3 February 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 5 February 2025. It was answered by Hamish Falconer (Labour) on Wednesday, 12 February 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Pakistan: Foreign Aid

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with his counterpart in Pakistan on press freedom within Pakistan.

Answer: The UK is a champion of media freedom and proud member of the Media Freedom Coalition. We are deeply concerned by restrictions on media freedom in Pakistan and regularly raise this issue at the highest levels. I underlined the importance of upholding freedom of information when I met Pakistan's Human Rights Minister on 19 November, and discussed the safety of journalists in Parliament on 28 November. We will continue to advocate for improved legislation and stronger institutions to enable a free and independent media and ensure the safety of journalists.

Secondary information