Efforts to make the Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB) a permanent role are ongoing. Jim Shannon, MP for Strangford, has introduced a Private Member's Bill (PMB) that would legally require the Prime Minister to appoint someone to the position.

Shannon's bill builds on earlier efforts by Fiona Bruce, MP for Congleton and former Special Envoy. Bruce's own bill had nearly reached its final stages but was cut short when Rishi Sunak called a general election in May. Her proposal had already garnered support from several government ministers, including former Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron.

Since Labour's rise to power, they have yet to confirm whether they will make an appointment to the role, which focuses on promoting FoRB and tackling religious persecution. DUP MP Jim Shannon expressed optimism that the new government would engage with the issue.

"To be fair to Labour, they are focused on the budget right now," Shannon told Premier. "But I believe the discussions we had before the election will resume as we approach the presentation of the PMB on 29th November. If the bill isn't processed then, it will be at a later stage."

Shannon added, "We need to keep pushing this with the Labour government. They recognise the issue, and I raise it regularly at business questions. Let's press the case and ensure that the Special Envoy becomes a permanent position."

The second reading is scheduled for 29th November.