asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have studied the joint statement issued by the 100 leaders of the world's main religious faiths who met in St Petersburg; and whether they will advocate this approach to global issues to the other G8 members.[HL6873]

The Government's approach to global issues is set out in the White Paper Active Diplomacy for a Changing World published in March 2006, a copy of which has been placed in the Library of the House. The joint statement of the religious leaders who met in Moscow on 3 and 4 July contains many elements that are consistent with that approach and with the objectives we have pursued in our work with partners in the G8 process. We welcome the contribution which religious groups and their leaders can make to address the major international challenges in today's world.