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David Proctor

Answer

Our embassy in Doha are aware of Mr. Proctor's case and have been providing consular assistance. The embassy has also expressed concern about the length of time it is taking to resolve his situation. Since the end of January our ambassador in Qatar has met with Mr. Proctor and has had two subsequent telephone conversations with him. Our consul has also had two separate meetings with him, and Mrs. Proctor had two meetings with consular staff during her recent visit to London. We will continue to stay in touch with Mr. Proctor and the Qatari authorities.Our embassy in Doha has raised Mr. Proctor's case with the Qatari authorities to establish the nature of the investigation into him and the existence of a ban on his leaving Qatar while the investigation is ongoing. As of 22 February 2010, no charges had been brought against him, but the Public Prosecution Department's investigation into allegations made by his former employer continues.Mr. Proctor is not being held in detention by the Qatari authorities but the embassy have received confirmation that an administrative travel ban remains in place which will not be lifted until the investigation is resolved. Additionally we understand that there are two separate legal matters running concurrently. The first is a financial dispute between Mr. Proctor and his former employer, the second a labour dispute lodged by Mr. Proctor against his former employer. We are unable to intervene in private legal issues.As the matter is being dealt with by our embassy in Qatar there have been no discussions with the Qatari ambassador in London.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

506 c704W; 318365

Session

2009-10

Subjects

British nationals abroad Qatar

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk