Written question asked by Ed Davey (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 4 December 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 6 December 2006. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Monday, 11 December 2006 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Extradition

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions the UK has had with the United Arab Emirates on extradition agreements; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: The UK negotiated an extradition treaty with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the summer. My right hon. Friend the Home Secretary signed the treaty with the Emirati Minister of Justice at Lancaster House on 6 December.The treaty is one element in a package of crime-fighting measures. Other elements include a mutual legal assistance treaty and a treaty on civil and commercial matters.The UAE is a key partner for the UK in particular in work on financial crime—including VAT fraud, counter-narcotics and counter-terrorism. This package of measures will enhance our ability to work in close co-operation with the UAE on these important issues.

Secondary information