To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports his Department has received of incidents of the persecution of Christians in other countries on the grounds of apostasy during the last two years; and if he will make a statement. (213907)

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has received a number of reports of incidents of persecution of Christians and apostasy that have taken place in different parts of the world including Iran, Pakistan, Egypt and Eritrea among others.

We condemn all instances of violence and discrimination against individuals and groups because of their faith or belief, wherever they happen or whatever the religion of the individual or group concerned.

We have discussed the issue of human rights abuses on the grounds of apostasy with Christian Solidarity Worldwide. They have agreed to keep the FCO informed of instances where apostates have suffered human rights abuses.