VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Organs: Black Economy

Asked by Jim ShannonDemocratic Unionist PartyForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 15 May 2025UIN 50106

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to help tackle the black market sale of (a) kidneys and (b) other organs in other countries.

Answered by Stephen Doughty

Gangs and criminals that exploit and traffic people are part of international organised crime networks that do immense harm. Serious and organised crime in the UK is estimated to cost at least £47 billion annually and threatens our national security and prosperity. Overseas it poses a serious threat to our international objectives, including our efforts to deliver economic development, state building and poverty reduction. The UK is committed to tackling Serious Organised Crime and the illicit financial flows that underpin it through diplomatic, programmatic and operational interventions.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim