PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
The Gambia: Politics and Government (20 April 2016)

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what representations he has made to the government of Gambia on the arrest, alleged torture and deaths of Ousainou Darboe and other members of the Gambian Opposition United Democratic Party; and what steps he is taking to ensure that the government of Gambia release those other members of that party who are detained as soon as possible.

Asked by:
Fabian Hamilton (Labour)

The United Kingdom is deeply concerned over reports of excessive violence and allegations of ill treatment of those detained following peaceful demonstrations in The Gambia. I made a statement on 19 April calling on The Gambian authorities to investigate these allegations in a thorough and transparent manner, ensuring that anyone responsible for any wrongdoing is held accountable and brought to justice. Those in custody should either be charged or released immediately and be treated in accordance with internationally acceptable human rights standards. Our Ambassador in The Gambia formally raised our concerns with The Gambia’s Foreign Minister on 18 April and will continue to press The Gambian authorities on this issue.

Answered by:
Sir James Duddridge (Conservative)
25 April 2016