Visit to Saudi Arabia opportunity to raise human rights record – Horwood

Commenting on the Prime Minister's visit to Saudi Arabia, Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Party Committee on International Affairs, Martin Horwood said:

"Britain should play an active role in Middle East diplomacy at this dangerous moment in the region's history. Iran's nuclear programme poses a real threat to regional stability and David Cameron's visit to Saudi Arabia is a welcome part of seeking to reduce that risk.

"It is important for the Coalition Government to promote British trade wherever this is appropriate as is part of our long-term plan to clear up Labour's economic mess.

"This visit also gives the Prime Minister the opportunity to highlight concerns about human rights within Saudi Arabia. Liberal Democrats are very worried about the Saudi kingdom's terrible record on human rights including those of women, religious minorities, foreign workers and political opponents of the regime.

"The Coalition Government did the right thing to champion Arab democracy throughout the Arab Spring and we must not send out mixed messages now."