Lords debates human rights violations

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In a wide-ranging debate, members of the Lords highlighted some of the human rights abuses taking place in different parts of the world today and sought assurances about the UK's position in the international human rights community.

Among the issues raised were the campaign for the abolition of the death penalty, the prevention of torture, child labour and the abuse of women - including domestic violence. Members also called for action to end the abuse of human rights of disabled people, protection of the freedom of religion and belief and urged the consideration of LGBT issues across the world as a priority.

Responding to the debate, Senior Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Baroness Warsi (Conservative), thanked members for their contributions and emphasised the government's commitment to working to end human rights violations: 'Breaking this cycle and upholding the fundamental rights to which every human is entitled are at the very core of every aspect of our diplomatic engagement, just as I know it is at the core of the work of this House.' 

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