PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
Andy Hall (4 September 2015)

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what reports he has received of the effect on (a) due process and independence of the judiciary and (b) freedom of expression and labour standards in Thailand of the decision by the Thailand Attorney General to appeal against the court dismissal of the charges against Andy Hall.

Asked by:
Kerry McCarthy (Labour)

We are following these issues in Thailand closely. We have been clear that we support freedom of expression unequivocally and have expressed our concerns to the Thai authorities.

We have raised Mr Hall’s case with the Thai Justice Minister, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other Thai authorities. We have also raised his issues with the National Legislative Assembly and passed them a report from him. We are in touch with the UN High Commission for Refugees, the International Organisation on Migration and non-government organisations about the rights of migrant workers, refugees, trafficking and other labour issues.

Our officials continue to monitor and observe Mr Hall’s case closely. We will ensure that his case is raised with the Thai authorities where appropriate and remind the authorities of their obligations to ensure international human rights standards are upheld.

Answered by:
Lord Swire (Conservative)
14 September 2015