Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 11
11
Accepted
Paragraph: 39
In cases we have examined, the FCDO has been too slow to identify detentions of...
Conclusion
In cases we have examined, the FCDO has been too slow to identify detentions of concern and to escalate these cases within the department. Any system of rapidly identifying such cases needs to be able to harness the extensive knowledge of the environment held at Post with guidance based on the breadth of experience of the FCDO and external expertise.
Government Response Summary
The government states that the FCDO already uses a task force approach to harness knowledge and expertise, and trains staff to reassess complex consular cases systematically and escalate them to senior staff without delay.
Paragraph Reference:
39
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
22. The Government accepts the fundamental importance of early identification and escalation of complex detentions, including arbitrary detention for diplomatic leverage. That is why the FCDO has adopted the task force approach recommended in the Macgregor review to harness the widest possible range of knowledge, experience, and expertise, and why we work with a range of external partners and specialist support organizations. Senior diplomatic staff based overseas and in geographic directorates in the FCDO participate in task force meetings in a wide range of cases to help ensure case strategies are tailored to the specific circumstances and context, and that the fullest possible range of levers and options are identified. 23. The FCDO already trains its staff to reassess complex consular cases systematically and regularly, and to escalate them to more senior staff without delay as we recognise that