Abu Qatada Debate

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Department: Home Office
Wednesday 24th April 2013

(11 years, 8 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Baroness May of Maidenhead Portrait Mrs May
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Given her experience, the right hon. Lady will know that we do not comment publicly on whether or not we intend to impose TPIMs on individuals. If an application for bail is made, the Home Office will vigorously defend its belief, and my belief, that Abu Qatada should remain behind bars.

Nadine Dorries Portrait Nadine Dorries (Mid Bedfordshire) (Con)
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What is the worst thing that could happen to us if we did just put Abu Qatada on a plane? If it is a fine or incurring the displeasure of the European Court of Human Rights, would it not be best for us to withdraw temporarily, put him on a plane, and then rejoin?

Baroness May of Maidenhead Portrait Mrs May
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My hon. Friend and others have been raising for some time the possibility of our simply defying our international legal obligations and putting Abu Qatada on a plane. My answer to her today is the same as the answer that I have given to others in the past: I believe that the UK Government should abide by the rule of law.