PRISONERS OF CONSCIENCE IN ERITREA

Early day motion 504, tabled 13 October 2015 by Patrick Grady (Scottish National Party). Signed by 36 members.

That this House notes the campaign by Amnesty International calling for the release of Aster Fissehatison and 10 other prisoners of conscience in Eritrea, who were arrested on 18 September 2001 after writing an open letter to that President of that country calling for democratic political dialogue, unity and the peaceful rule of law; further notes reports by Amnesty International that the group has never been put on trial or charged with any offence, and that no official word about its whereabouts or physical condition has ever been given to family members or friends; welcomes the work of Amnesty International and other campaign groups, including members of the Eritrean community living outside Eritrea, to raise awareness of these prisoners of conscience; and calls on the Government to work with the international community to address ongoing abuses of human rights in Eritrea.

Signatures by party: Scottish National Party 26, Labour 4, Social Democratic and Labour Party 3, Conservative 1, DUP 1, Labour/Co-operative 1.