Albanian Prisoners in Serbia

HL Deb 13 March 2000 vol 610 c178WA

Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will make representations on behalf of up to 2,000 Albanians, including Dr Flora Brovina and Mr Albin Kurti, currently held in Serbian prisons, many without charge; and in particular whether they will seek access for the International Committee of the Red Cross.[HL1302]

Baroness Ramsay of Cartvale

The UK does not have diplomatic relations with the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (FRY) so is unable to make effective representations to the FRY authorities on behalf of the Albanian prisoners (believed to be some 1,540) held in Serbia. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), as an impartial body, has access to the Kosovar prisoners. Through its contacts with the authorities, the ICRC is making strenuous efforts to ensure that those facing prosecution benefit from the legal safeguards laid down in international law. We strongly support their important role in this matter. The UN representative in Kosovo, Bernard Kouchner, has frequently made public calls for the release of the Albanian prisoners in Serbia.