Matthew Hedges

Lord Soley Excerpts

Thursday 22nd November 2018 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Goldie]

As I indicated earlier, the Foreign Secretary certainly takes the view that this inevitably has an effect on the relationship between our two countries. That is a matter of great regret but it is also a matter of fact. That relationship has to be built on trust, and I have no doubt that my noble friend’s remarks will be heard.

[Lord Soley (Lab)]

My Lords, are the Government aware that the late Sheikh Zayed, who founded the UAE, did so on the basis that he wanted his country to move towards a constitutional monarchy underpinned by the rule of law? In that capacity, some years ago I gave a lecture there on the importance of a stable society, and the rule of law in underpinning a stable society. Can the Minister remind the UAE that incidents such as this undermine the memory of the original aims of the late Sheikh Zayed?

[Baroness Goldie]

I thank the noble Lord for making a very pertinent point, which, again, I am sure will not be lost on those who listen to it.