Coronavirus: British Citizens Imprisoned Abroad

Debate between Baroness Sugg and Baroness Masham of Ilton

Monday 2nd March 2020 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Sugg]

My Lords, I agree that it is absolutely right that we should get the balance of our reaction correct. Of course, public safety is our top priority and I thank all those already working around the clock so that we are ready at home and can ensure the safety of UK nationals abroad. Our approach in this country is being guided by the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, and independent experts. We will continue to work closely with the World Health Organization and the international community to ensure that we get our response to this outbreak right.

[Baroness Masham of Ilton (CB)]

My Lords, is it true that the prisoners who are ill abroad are not being tested? Surely all of them should be tested and treated.

[Baroness Sugg]

If the noble Baroness is referring directly to the prisoners in Iran, as I say, we are working closely with the Iranian authorities to ensure that we have access to them and that they get the testing and the medical attention they need.