To ask the Secretary of State for International Trade, pursuant to the Answer of 18 October to Question 52516 on Human Rights: India, what representations her Department has made to the Government of India on ensuring that freedom of religion or belief protections are enshrined in any future trade agreement.
Answered on
6 December 2021
The United Kingdom is committed to defending freedom of religion or belief for all, and promoting respect between different communities. Promoting the right to freedom of religion or belief is one of the United Kingdom’s longstanding overseas priorities.
We believe that trade is vital for our economy and future prosperity, but it need not come at the expense of our values. We engage with India on a range of matters, independent of a Free Trade Agreement, as part of our ongoing bilateral relationship. This involves working with Union and State Governments, and with non-governmental organisations, to build capacity and share expertise.