Miliband attacked for refusing Guantanamo detainees

Tuesday, 27 January 2009 11:00 AM

By politics.co.uk staff

The decision to refuse to take foreign Guantanamo Bay inmates shows Britain is not living up to its 'special relationship' with America, human rights group Reprieve has told David Miliband.

The foreign secretary has ruled out taking ex-prisoners from other countries, protesting that Britain had its plate full in resettling its own nationals.

The decision comes despite calls from president Barack Obama for Europe to take some of the foreign national Guantanamo detainees so the facility can be closed as soon as possible.

"If every country takes this attitude, President Obama will simply not be able to close Guantanamo Bay," said Clare Algar, executive director of Reprieve.

"The UK must lead by example by providing refuge for wronged prisoners who are no danger to anyone."

Reprieve client Ayman al-Shurafa has been cleared for release, but as a Palestinian is currently stateless. Welcoming Ayman would demonstrate leadership in Europe and a 'special' level of support for President Obama, the group argued.

So far, the 12 ex-prisoners who have resettled in Britain have lived peacefully in the community.

"With a special relationship comes special responsibility," said Clive Stafford Smith director of Reprieve.

"Britain led Europe in prosecuting the war on terror; now we must lead by example in cleaning up the mess."

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