Written question asked by Lord Jacobs (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Scotland of Asthal (Labour) on Thursday, 13 July 2006.

Extradition: United States

Question: Why their obligations under the extradition treaty with the Government of the United States have become effective before the reciprocal obligations of the United States commenced.

Answer: The extradition treaty with the US of 2003 is not yet in force. However, certain elements of the treaty, which also apply to many other extradition partners, were given effect by the Extradition Act 2003 and secondary legislation under it. Inclusion of the US in this way was done in advance of the coming into force of the 2003 treaty because the Government considered it right to treat the US in the same way as other trusted extradition partners. To change the designation of the US under secondary legislation would be a retrograde step.

Secondary information