Written question asked by Bishop of Oxford (Bishops (affiliation)) on Monday, 6 October 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 October 2025. It was answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Labour) on Monday, 20 October 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Neurology: Ethics

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government whether they will work with international partners to ensure that the proposed Recommendation on the Ethics of Neurotechnology from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization upholds (1) international human rights standards, including safeguards for equity, mental integrity and privacy, (2) the precautionary principle, and (3) protections for children and other vulnerable groups.

Answer: The UK actively participated in developing the draft United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Recommendation on the Ethics of Neurotechnology. The Government sought to ensure that the draft Recommendation is consistent with international human rights law, including the right to privacy. We welcome that the Recommendation aims to prevent harm in line with international law and covers specific vulnerable groups, including children and persons with disabilities. The Recommendation will be considered for adoption by the UNESCO General Conference in November this year and we hope that this debate will enable important progress towards mitigating risks arising from the use of neurotechnology.

Secondary information