Teather writes to Straw demanding 'Justice for Dad'

3.32.44pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 14th Mar 2006

Sarah Teather has written to Jack Straw seeking 'Justice for Dad'

Local Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Teather has written to the Foreign Secretary Jack Straw calling on him to meet the family of Jamil el-Banna.

Sarah's letter reads:

Dear Jack,

I am writing regarding my above-named constituent who is currently imprisoned in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and about whom I have written to you before. Jamil is a Jordanian national who was granted refugee status by you in 2000.

I understand from news reports over the weekend that the United States is in discussions with the British Government seeking their advice on how to 'repatriate' those held in Guantanamo Bay to their home countries were it to be closed. In Jamil's case this would mean returning him to Jordan.

I am deeply concerned that if Jamil were sent to Jordan by the American authorities he would face persecution, something recognised by your granting of refugee status to him. Can you therefore confirm that the British Government is not in discussions with the United States with regard to 'repatriating' British residents to the countries of which they are nationals? Can you further confirm that, in any discussion that you are having or will have with the United States that you will be seeking Jamil's return to the UK rather than Jordan?

Can you also clarify Jamil's immigration status were he to be returned to the UK? Can you confirm that he would be entitled to apply for a visa to re-enter the country? Would you allow him to apply for one directly from Cuba rather than requiring him to apply from Jordan? Government Ministers have previously indicated that an application from Jamil for entry clearance to the UK would be considered if he were released, and I am writing to the Home Secretary to further clarify this commitment. However, I would like to know what help you will provide to my constituent to enable him to make such an application? Can you confirm that, in principle, Jamil would be allowed to apply to return to the UK before he is released from Guantanamo Bay? Would any such application be expedited quickly?

There is a real risk that if Jamil is returned to Jordan he may never be seen again. It is therefore a matter of urgency that the British Government do not wash their hands of him. You have a moral duty to help this man, who has never been charged with any offence, and whose children are all British citizens.

Given the above, I would be grateful if I and Mr el-Banna's family could have the opportunity to meet with you to discuss his case.

I look forward to your reply. If you need to contact me in the meantime, please do not hesitate to do so by using the details below.

Yours sincerely,

Sarah Teather MP

MP for Kilburn, Willesden Green, Welsh Harp, Dollis Hill, Dudden Hill, Mapesbury, Queen's Park, Brondesbury and Kensal Rise

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