The Government's position on this issue is clear: torture is one of the most abhorrent violations of human rights and human dignity, and its use is unreservedly condemned as a matter of principle.  Both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the House, the Rt Hon David Lidington MP have made that point recently.  Furthermore, the Government will continue to raise concerns about such flagrant abuses of human rights with relevant foreign Governments at every opportunity.  

As you may be aware, all asylum claims lodged in the United Kingdom, including those involving claims of past torture, are carefully considered on their individual merits.  Decision makers are fully aware of the importance of making the right decision and the consequences of refusing those who need protection, and I can assure you that decision makers receive extensive training on how to consider asylum claims, including vicarious trauma training for caseworkers to guard against hardening.

Finally, I was unfortunately unable to attend the Westminster Hall debate on 2 March owing to other diary commitments, but was pleased that Members from both sides were able to discuss this important topic.