Torture inquiry can restore UK reputation
June 29, 2010 3:01 PM
Originally published by Sarah Ludford MEP
Originally published by Sarah Ludford MEP
Commenting on a heralded forthcoming announcement by the Prime Minister of details of an independent inquiry into alleged British complicity in torture, Liberal Democrat European justice & human rights spokeswoman and London MEP Sarah Ludford, who was vice chair of the European Parliament's inquiry 3 years ago into European involvement in 'extraordinary rendition', said:
"It's a breath of fresh air that the new government is delivering on its promise to establish the truth about what happened regarding UK complicity in torture during the Bush years. This contrasts sharply with Labour denial and evasion."
"Only a very thorough cleaning of the stables can re-establish Britain's reputation as a nation of principles rather than a side-kick to appalling human rights abuses."
"Besides full access to documents and the power to cross-examine both security officials and politicians, the inquiry commission needs freedom to investigate all evidence of wrongdoing, not just the cases already known. It should also be judge-led, held as far as possible in public, and not rule out the possibility of prosecutions."
ENDS
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