PARLIAMENTARY DEBATE
Christians in Nigeria - 6 February 2020 (Commons/Commons Chamber)
Debate Detail
Contributions from Janet Daby, are highlighted with a yellow border.
Sir Desmond Swayne
New Forest West
Andrew Selous
The Archbishop of Canterbury knows Nigeria well and has visited it on a number of occasions. He is extremely aware of the local tensions and context of this issue. The recent attacks in northern Nigeria by Boko Haram and Islamist militia are a source of profound concern to him and the Church.
10:19:59
Sir Desmond Swayne
Is my hon. Friend satisfied with the progress in implementing the Bishop of Truro’s findings?
10:19:59
Andrew Selous
I know my right hon. Friend takes a very close interest in these matters. Ten of the recommendations from the Bishop of Truro’s review have been, or are being implemented, and the others are being worked on. Our diplomats are using the review to engage their host Governments wherever there are abuses of freedom of religion or belief.
Janet Daby
Lewisham East
The UK hosts Christians from all over the world, from Lebanon to Sri Lanka, and in Lewisham East we have a vibrant Nigerian Christian community. It would be a shame if the Foreign and Commonwealth Office did not tap into the knowledge and culture available at home in the UK better to serve persecuted communities abroad.
10:19:59
Andrew Selous
I thank the hon. Lady very much for that excellent suggestion. I will certainly feed back to Church House and Lambeth Palace the point she helpfully makes.
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