To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the effect of reported changes to the Bible made by the Chinese Communist Party on the right to freedom of religion or belief in that country.
Answered on
9 February 2021
We remain deeply concerned about the persecution of Christians and others on the grounds of their religion or belief in China, including reports that authorities are tightening control over how certain religions are practised. The freedom to practise, change or share one's faith or belief without discrimination or violent opposition is a human right that all people should enjoy, this includes having access to religious texts and being allowed to worship in a manner of their choosing. The UK believes that societies which aim to guarantee freedom of religion or belief are more stable, prosperous and more resilient against violent extremism. We continue to raise Freedom of Religion or Belief issues directly with the Chinese authorities and via multilateral action at the UN.