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Written question asked by Lord Maginnis of Drumglass (Independent Ulster Unionist) on Tuesday, 4 April 2017, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 April 2017. It was answered by Baroness Anelay of St Johns (Conservative) on Wednesday, 19 April 2017 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

MV Seaman Guard Ohio

Question

To ask Her Majesty’s Government, in the light of the Somalia pirates’ hijacking of an Indian vessel on 1 April, whether they intend to further press the government of India regarding the release of the British ex-servicemen known as the Chennai Six who were arrested while on anti-piracy duties in October 2013; and what representations they have made to the government of India about the proportion of the five-year sentences which should be served.

Answer

The Prime Minister, the Foreign Secretary and the Minister for Asia and the Pacific have all raised this case in meetings with counterparts during recent visits to India and made clear the importance of seeing progress. Most recently the Foreign Secretary raised the case with Minister of State for External Affairs M J Akbar during his visit in January.

While we do not seek to interfere in the legal process of another country, we continue to urge swift due process and await the verdict of the men's appeal.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL6628
Session
2016-17
Subjects
British nationals abroad India Prisoners Piracy Somalia MV Seaman Guard Ohio
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk