39. As was acknowledged by Minister Doughty, in his oral evidence to the Committee, the Government is aware and concerned about reports from Taiwan’s National Security Bureau that misinformation from China into the country increased 60% last year. 40. The Government engages with the Taiwanese authorities on a range of issues, and the UK will continue to support democratic values and media freedom in Taiwan, including through engagement with Taiwan’s vibrant network of civil society organisations. 41. The UK considers the Taiwan issue one to be settled by the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait through constructive dialogue and firmly opposes any activity – including information manipulation or misinformation – that undermines peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the free and fair operation of democratic processes. We are supportive of work that strengthens key democratic actors and that contributes to societies that are better equipped to address emerging threats, build public trust and uphold democratic values. Iran