Written question asked by Keith Vaz (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 17 March 1997. It was answered by Liam Fox (Conservative) on Monday, 17 March 1997 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: What steps are being taken to secure the release of Stephen Miles and Paul Loseby, detained in Venezuela; what assessment he has made of the conditions in which they are detained; what representations he has (a) made and (b) received from the Venezuelan authorities on this matter, indicating the dates of all correspondence; and when he next expects to take measures to secure their release.

Answer: Mr. Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps are being taken to secure the release of Stephen Miles and Paul Loseby, detained in Venezuela; what assessment he has made of the conditions in which they are detained; what representations he has (a) made and (b) received from the Venezuelan authorities on this matter, indicating the dates of all correspondence; and when he next expects to take measures to secure their release. [20189] Dr. Fox: The release of James Miles and Paul Loseby is a matter for the Venezuelan authorities. Following written representations by the British ambassador on 19 November 1996, the two men are being held in La Vega police cells, where conditions are better than in the prison where they would otherwise be held. That was the last correspondence we have sent to the Venezuelan authorities, from whom we have received no representations.

Secondary information