Written question asked by Andrew Mitchell (Conservative) on Friday, 19 March 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 March 2021 (named day). It was answered by Wendy Morton (Conservative) on Wednesday, 24 March 2021 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Jonathan Taylor

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made to the (a) French and (b) Monegasque Governments about the extradition of whistleblower Jonathan Taylor in relation to the European Convention on Extradition 1957.

Answer: As set out in the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, we cannot interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, or bypass their laws, just as we would not accept similar interference here. The FCDO cannot seek to interfere in Monegasque court processes. Any concerns about the way in which Mr Taylor might be able to give evidence are a matter for the Monegasque legal system and Mr Taylor's lawyers. As part of our consular assistance to British nationals overseas we can raise concerns about individuals on diplomatic channels. I raised Mr Taylor's case with the Monegasque Foreign Secretary on 13 November 2020 to seek assurances that he would be treated fairly. Monaco provided direct assurances to Croatia in January.

Secondary information