British Citizens Imprisoned Overseas and Coronavirus Debate

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Department: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

British Citizens Imprisoned Overseas and Coronavirus

Andrew Murrison Excerpts
Monday 2nd March 2020

(4 years, 1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
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Nigel Adams Portrait Nigel Adams
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As I just explained, it is very difficult when the Iranian authorities do not recognise dual nationality. The Prime Minister has met Nazanin’s family, as the hon. Gentleman will know, but we do not have full consular access; we use our people on the ground instead. The ambassador and the staff there are doing a fantastic job in trying circumstances. We are intervening: not only have we spoken to Mr Ratcliffe today—the Foreign Office is in regular contact with the family—but we have made very strong representations today on behalf of Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe stating that she should get the right treatment and indeed be released from that prison.

Andrew Murrison Portrait Dr Andrew Murrison (South West Wiltshire) (Con)
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The hon. Member for Hampstead and Kilburn (Tulip Siddiq) is right to raise the plight of her constituent and other dual nationals wrongfully detained in Evin prison. Can the Minister say how the welcome €5 million pledged by the E3 will be spent and indicate whether the authorities in Tehran are prepared to accept it?