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Libya: Refugees

Question for Foreign and Commonwealth Office

UIN HL1511, tabled on 11 September 2017

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether, during his recent visit to Libya, the Foreign Secretary addressed conditions inside Libyan detention centres; and what assessment they have made of criticisms by Médecins Sans Frontières regarding the impact of UK policies on detainees in that country.

Answered on

10 October 2017

The Foreign Secretary highlighted the importance of adhering to international human rights standards when he met with Prime Minister Serrajduring his visit in August 2017. The UK is pursuing a comprehensive approach to migration to address the root causes as well as the devastating impact migration has on those who are most vulnerable. The UK's humanitarian programme includes substantial support to improve the standards in detention facilities in Libya. This activity is specifically designed to protect migrants' human rights and improve conditions, and is underpinned by the 'do no harm' principle. We have checks in place to make sure that is the case. We are very concerned about the conditions in detention centres, which is exactly why we are providing assistance and Assisted Voluntary Returns, and will continue to do so.

Answered by

Foreign and Commonwealth Office