Airstrip One

We Object - 8th July 2003, 22.40

On the question of detainees in Guantanamo Bay, we object, we object strongly and we will continue to object, especially if they threaten the death penalty. Chris Mullins, orator of the Commons, spoke out...

We have strong reservations about the military commission. We have raised, and will continue to raise them energetically with the US.

So far, neither of the detainees has been charged. However, we have made it clear to the US that we expect the process to fulfil internationally accepted standards of a fair trial. We will follow the process carefully.

The US is aware of our fundamental opposition to the use of the death penalty in all circumstances. If there is any suggestion that the death penalty might be sought in these cases, we would raise the strongest possible objections.

We are so civilised.