Thank you for contacting me about the persecution of Christians.

The UK has always championed freedom of religion or belief for everyone.

That is why I am glad the Government has committed to implementing the Independent Review of Foreign and Commonwealth Office support for persecuted Christians, conducted by the Anglican Bishop of Truro, the Right Reverend Philip Mounstephen.

The recommendations of the review have been divided into short, medium and longer term priorities and Ministers have already implemented a good number of them. This includes recently appointing a Director General level to champion for Freedom of Religion and Belief and marking Red Wednesday in support of persecuted Christians and members of other minority groups. Some of the recommendations will take longer to implement and many will require an ongoing effort to embed into the working practice of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and other Departments.

I understand your concerns about the increased vulnerability of Christians during the coronavirus outbreak. It is of course vital that we do all we can to ensure aid gets through to those that need it most. I am confident that the UK Government will work to ensure that aid reaches the most vulnerable. including those from religious minorities.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.