A Bill to make provision for a right to consular assistance for British journalists abroad who have been detained or held hostage; and for connected purposes.
The Consular Assistance (Journalists) Bill would create a legally enforceable right for British journalists who are detained or held hostage abroad to receive consular support from the UK government. It also lays out the government’s duties to provide help and to coordinate relevant assistance for these journalists and, where appropriate, their families and employers.
The bill is at the second reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it would move to committee stage for detailed scrutiny.
Generated 21 February 2026
The next stage for this Bill, Second reading, is scheduled to take place on a date to be confirmed.
This is a Private Members' Bill and was presented to Parliament on Wednesday 22 January.
No recorded votes for this bill yet.