PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
Sudan: Overseas Trade (20 October 2021)

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to encourage trade links between the UK and Sudan.

Asked by:
Dame Harriett Baldwin (Conservative)

We strongly condemn the actions of the Sudanese military on 25 October to detain Prime Minister Hamdok and members of the civilian government, declare a state of emergency and unilaterally dissolve the transitional government. Over the past two years, the UK has taken a leading role to support Sudan on their delicate path from oppressive autocratic rule to freedom and democracy. The actions of the military represents a betrayal of the Sudanese people and their journey to democracy. We urge Sudan's military leadership to reverse their course, to release detained politicians, and to ensure Sudanese people can protest without fear of violence. Economic recovery remains a vital part of delivering stability for Sudan and the transitional goals of the agreement made between all sides in 2019. During my recent visit to Khartoum I had the opportunity to discuss ways in which to improve the business environment and investment. I was also able to hear from Sudanese and British business representatives about the important role businesses can play in the success of the transition. We will consider the future of such engagement in light of the actions of the Sudanese military this week.
Answered by:
Vicky Ford (Conservative)
28 October 2021