An increased international focus on protection of religious freedom is required to combat the worldwide persecution, torture and killing of Christians, says Cross-bench Peer, Lord Alton. The Peer made the statement whilst leading a debate calling on the House of Lords to note that Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was ‘under threat in almost every corner of the world’. Lord Alton asked the House to take note of international compliance with Article 18 and said greater devotion to the protection of religious freedom was required. Article 18 of the UDHR stipulates that, ‘Everyone shall have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.’ Lord Alton drew on many international examples of the persecution of Christians around the world. Lord Bach supported the cross-bench member saying Lord Alton’s motion was ‘right and action is necessary’. He said the House looked forward to hearing what the Government proposed to do about the situation.