Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 26
26
Rejected
Paragraph: 77
We recommend that unless the detainee expressly withholds consent to do so, the families of...
Recommendation
We recommend that unless the detainee expressly withholds consent to do so, the families of any vulnerable or arbitrary detainee receiving consular assistance be provided by a senior manager or minister in the FCDO at the soonest possible time with a clear description of the Government’s plan of engagement. Briefings should be frequent and include as much detail as possible. It should be clearly explained that some information will be classified but that the aim will be for maximum transparency. The relevant official or minister should be prepared to give private briefings to the relevant constituency Member of Parliament if requested by the family. This requires a significant step-change in the Government’s approach, which reinforces the need for a Director for Arbitrary and Complex Detentions.
Government response summary AI-generated
The government does not agree with establishing a separate post of Director for Arbitrary and Complex Detentions, as their approach reflects the Foreign Secretary's primacy within Cabinet and the importance of country-specific expertise and consular best practice.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Paragraph Reference:
77
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government · verbatim extract
Rejected
50. The Government recognises the ordeal faced by families and friends of those detained for diplomatic leverage. Families are both victims and valuable partners. Where families have deep links with the detaining country, they may have access to information that the Government does not. We listen carefully to their views, particularly where there is a risk that Government involvement may increase the value of a detainee or deepen suspicion as to their activities. We always seek to give families involved in a complex consular case continuity with a named case officer. We also have a 24/7 operation that can respond quickly out of hours if necessary. During complex detentions, engagement with families, and their representatives including MPs, can be extensive including regular meetings with senior officials and Ministers. We are led by families as to the frequency of those meetings. We discuss case strategies with families, including seeking their views. We may not share all details of our proposed action if we judge it could harm the interests of the detained person or others (for example if multiple British nationals are affected or where it might compromise ongoing bilateral discussions). We recognise the frustration and concern that can cause the family of a detainee and will look wherever possible to build and maintain relationships of trust.
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