To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps her Department is taking to ensure that the processes governing the allocation of UK development assistance gives cognisance to the escalation of persecution against Christians.

The UK Government is at the forefront of work to promote human rights around the world, and regularly criticises Governments which violates those rights. This includes working to end religious intolerance and persecution and we strongly condemn any alleged persecution and will continue to uphold the rights of citizens, regardless of faith, ethnicity or belief.

We only provide aid directly to Governments where we are satisfied that they share our commitments to reduce poverty and respect human rights. Where we cannot provide aid directly to Governments, we will find other ways to help poor people in those countries.