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Written question asked by Gregory Campbell (Democratic Unionist Party) on Monday, 10 July 2017, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 13 July 2017 (named day). It was answered by Mark Field (Conservative) on Thursday, 13 July 2017 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

India: British Nationals Abroad

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make representations to the Government of India on behalf of the six ex-Army personnel being held in Chennai Jail.

Answer

As we have throughout this case, we continue to raise the case with the Indian authorities at all levels. The case was most recently raised by the Prime Minister with Indian Prime Minister Modi at the G20 in Hamburg last week.

We understand the impact the separation of six families is having and how the wait for a verdict is increasing the stress and financial strain on them. We make that point when we raise the case with the Indian authorities. However, we cannot interfere in what is an ongoing legal process, just as we would not allow another country to interfere in an ongoing court case in the United Kingdom.

While we await a verdict our High Commission in India remains in close contact with the men's legal team in India and in the UK, and our focus continues to be on the men's welfare and the support we can provide to their families.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
3900
Session
2017-19
Subjects
British nationals abroad India Prisoners MV Seaman Guard Ohio
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk