UN Human Rights Council 43: Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Torture

Thank you Mr Vice President.

The UK thanks the Special Rapporteur on Torture for his report.

The UK unreservedly condemns the use of torture. Torture is an abhorrent violation of human rights and human dignity, and its impact on societies and individuals is devastating. Preventing torture and tackling impunity for those who torture are essential components of safeguarding our security and a necessary part of any fair legal system and the rule of law. The UK works closely with international partners to eradicate this abhorrent practice.

Torture prevention remains integral to the UK’s rule of law programmes, which aim to build security and stability overseas. The UK continues to support torture prevention programmes around the world via the UK’s Magna Carta Fund.

The UK is also a long-standing, strong, and vocal supporter of the UN’s Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and will continue to encourage and support other states to ratify and implement the protocol soon.

Finally, the UK government stands by its response to the Special Rapporteur’s letter, and rejects any allegation Julian Assange has been subjected to torture in any form as a result of actions by the UK government.

Thank you.