To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports he has received of (a) closures of churches in Iran and (b) the treatment of Christians in that country; what recent representations he has made to the Government of Iran on the matter; and if he will make a statement. (259541)

We have not received recent reports regarding the closure of churches in Iran, but we do have serious concerns about the treatment of Christians, in particular those who have converted from Islam to Christianity. We regularly raise these concerns with the Iranian authorities, both bilaterally and through the EU. We made over 40 representations in 2008, expressing our firm opposition to all forms of discrimination and oppression. We continue to urge Iran to respect and protect its religious minorities and free all prisoners held due to their faith or religious practice.