MEHDI KAZEMI AND THE TREATMENT OF HOMOSEXUALITY IN IRAN

Early day motion 1180, tabled 12 March 2008 by Diane Abbott (Labour). Signed by 75 members.

That this House is concerned by the case of Iranian teenager Mehdi Kazemi who is currently living in Holland; notes reports that Mr Kazemi's boyfriend was forced by Iranian authorities to denounce other gay men, including Mr Kazemi himself; is appalled at reports that Mr Kazemi's boyfriend was then hanged for the offence of homosexuality; believes that Mr Kazemi's life is in serious danger if he were returned to Iran; further notes that the Dutch authorities have rejected Mr Kazemi's appeal for asylum in Holland and are likely to deport him to the UK; believes that the Home Office view that Iran is safe for homosexuals as long as they hide their sexuality is contrary to human rights standards on sexual freedom; and calls on the Government to uphold its asserted position as a supporter of human rights by refraining from sending Mr Kazemi back to Iran and near-certain human rights abuses.

Signatures by party: Labour 41, Liberal Democrat 29, Conservative 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, UUP 1.