KENNY RICHEY

Early day motion 1593, tabled 15 July 2003 by Alistair Carmichael (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 134 members.

That this House notes the recent decision by the Home Office to grant Kenny Richey British citizenship; further notes that Mr Richey has spent 16 years on death row in the State of Ohio for the alleged murder of a two-year-old girl killed in a fire at her mother's apartment; notes that following the case having been heard at the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals on 7th May a final decision is expected before August as to whether he should face execution; notes that important forensic and eye witness evidence has come to light since the original verdict was reached which casts serious doubt on the safety of the conviction; notes, however, that under US law new evidence produced after a certain time does not provide grounds for a reversal; and therefore calls on the Foreign Secretary and the Prime Minister to make direct and robust representation to the state authorities, the Governor of Ohio and the President of the United States on behalf of Kenny Richey at the earliest opportunity, the eventual objective being to secure clemency.

Signatures by party: Labour 68, Liberal Democrat 40, Conservative 8, Labour/Co-operative 5, Plaid Cymru 4, Independent 2, Scottish National Party 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, DUP 1, Independent Ulster Unionist 1, UUP 1.