Through their global network, consular staff at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) endeavour to give appropriate and tailored support to British nationals overseas and their families in the UK 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
While, due to data protection regulations, the FCDO cannot share details of Mr Fitton’s case with third parties without his consent, they have confirmed that Mr Fitton and his family have been provided with consular support throughout his detention and trial.
While it would have been wrong for HM Government to attempt to distort the Iraqi legal process, the FCDO were clear throughout this ordeal that their officials would help Mr Fitton’s family to secure legal representation, including English-speaking legal representation, to give him the proper ability to defend himself.
Despite the objectionable outcome of Mr Fitton's sentencing, I welcome that the FCDO raised concerns with the Iraqi authorities regarding the possible imposition of the death penalty in Mr Fitton’s case, and that this eventuality has been avoided. The UK opposes the use of the death penalty under all circumstances and in all countries as a matter of principle.
FCDO Minister, James Cleverly, responded to an Urgent Question in Parliament on Mr Fitton on 11 May. I am satisfied by his remarks that the FCDO has and is doing all it can to support Mr Fitton and his family and will continue to support British nationals in incarceration around the globe. Nevertheless, I will press the FCDO on this matter in light of the unfortunate outcome of Mr Fitton's trial.