Thank you to all those who contacted me about the ongoing protests in Iran.

I am deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Iran. Mahsa Amini’s death on 16 September following her arrest by Iran’s ‘morality police’ was shocking and reprehensible. Mahsa’s death serves as a shocking reminder of the repression faced by women in Iran.

I stand in solidarity with those standing up to an oppressive regime that aims to restrict the liberty and vitality of its people and protesting for an end to state violence from the morality police. The people of Iran have a right to protest, and it is horrific that many have faced violence, thousands have been arrested, and hundreds have been killed. Reports that an individual arrested for taking part in the protests has since been issued with a death sentence are deeply concerning. I stand unequivocally against the death penalty, which is a gross abuse of human rights.

I supported fresh sanctions after Mahsa’s death and I am pleased that the Government has now sanctioned Iran’s morality police, as well as other political and security officials in Iran. This means that these individuals cannot travel to the UK and their assets will be frozen.

We know the regime is restricting information and has periodically blocked the internet in an effort to suppress dissent and prevent the protestors organising. I believe the Government should therefore explore how the UK can support Iranians being able to access the internet and independent media such as the BBC Persian service, which continues to reach many Iranians despite the regime’s efforts to block it. The Government should ensure it is building links with progressive forces in Iran and relationships with Iranian civil society.

My thoughts are with the friends and family of Mahsa Amini and all those who have been killed or injured in the protests. I will continue to follow developments and maintain my support for the human rights of all Iranian citizens.

Thank you once again for contacting me about this issue.