CHINA AND RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

Early day motion 630, tabled 19 July 2005 by Lindsay Hoyle (Labour). Signed by 50 members.

That this House condemns the Chinese government for its treatment of religious organisations within the People's Republic of China; notes that the rate of economic change in China has not been matched by political or social reform, with the Communist Party, the world's biggest political party, retaining its monopoly on power and maintaining strict control over the people, cracking down on any signs of opposition and sending outspoken dissidents to labour camps; further notes that this intolerance extends to religious organisations and believers; and therefore calls upon the Government to make representations to the Chinese government to put into practice the principles of tolerance, fairness and peace towards Christians living in China who wish to practise their faith.

Signatures by party: Labour 25, Liberal Democrat 9, Conservative 6, DUP 4, Scottish National Party 4, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1, UUP 1.