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Written question asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool (Crossbench) on Thursday, 6 March 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 March 2025. It was answered by Lord Hanson of Flint (Labour) on Thursday, 20 March 2025 on behalf of the Home Office.

Falun Gong: China

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the risk that Falun Gong practitioners in the UK, including Shen Yen performers, are subjected to transnational repression by the government of China, and what plans they have to support Falun Gong practitioners.

Answer

The Government is committed to promoting and protecting the right to freedom of religion or belief, including protecting the rights of Falun Gong Practitioners and their performance group, Shen Yun.

We continually assess potential threats in the UK, and take protection of individuals' rights, freedoms, and safety in the UK very seriously. Any attempt by any foreign state to intimidate, harass or harm individuals or communities in the UK will not be tolerated.

We have a broad suite of powers to counter foreign interference, including those actions which amount to transnational repression. We will continue to use all the tools at our disposal to keep people safe.

On 4 March 2025, the Security Minister announced a new package of training which will allow frontline police officers and staff to increase their understanding of the threats that foreign powers present. This training will increase law enforcement's ability to detect criminal activity which may be state-directed, and strengthen public confidence in the UK's response.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL5535
Session
2024-26
Subjects
China Oppression Falun Gong
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk