HL Deb 17 November 2004 vol 666 cc166-7WA
Baroness Northover

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What representations they intend to make to the Israeli Government regarding the recent arrest of Mordechai Vanunu. [HL4996]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

We welcomed Mr Vanunu's release on 21 April 2004, following completion of the full term of his 18-year sentence. We also expressed our serious concerns, which I raised with the Israeli chargé d'affaires in London, about the restrictive terms of his release, which appeared both excessive and punitive.

We are aware that Mr Vanunu was re-arrested on 11 November for allegedly divulging classified information and for violating the terms of his release. We will be seeking further clarification from the Israeli authorities and will continue to follow Mr Vanunu's case closely.