Written question asked by Marquess of Lothian (Conservative) on Thursday, 16 September 2021, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 30 September 2021. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Thursday, 30 September 2021 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Tunisia: Politics and Government

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the report by Human Rights Watch that there have been “arbitrary and politically motivated acts of repression” in Tunisia since that country’s parliament was suspended; and what discussions they have had with the government of that country about these issues.

Answer: We are aware of this report and we continue to closely monitor the situation in Tunisia. We recognise the legitimate demands of the Tunisian people for a better standard of living and honest, effective governance. We believe that the solution to Tunisia's challenges can only be achieved through the principles of democracy, transparency, respect for human rights, and free speech. Minister Cleverly spoke to Tunisian Foreign Minister Jerandi on 11 August. G7 Ambassadors in Tunis, led by the UK, issued a joint statement on 6 September setting out our joint position, which can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/g7-ambassadors-in-tunisia-issue-joint-statement-6-september-2021

Secondary information