Government statement on Sharia penal code in Brunei

Following the announcement that Brunei will be introducing strict new Islamic laws making various offences, such as adultery and sodomy, punishable by death, Mark Field has given a statement to the House of Commons outlining the Government's position.

The announcement from Brunei has been met with widespread global condemnation from celebrities and other public figures. Although homosexuality was already illegal in Brunei and punishable by up to 10 years in prison, the new announcement has sparked a series of calls to boycott various business interests from which the Sultan of Brunei profits.

In his statement, Mark Field told MPs:

“This Government considers it appalling that in the 21st Century people anywhere are still facing potential persecution and discrimination because of who they are and who they love.”

Responding on behalf of the Opposition, Khalid Mahmood MP and said:

"What we have seen in Brunei in the past week with these proposed new laws has been shocking and shameful, but has also been deeply sad."

• Watch Parliament TV: statement on Sharia penal code in Brunei
• Read Commons Hansard: statement on Sharia penal code in Brunei

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