16 Nov 2005

The Muslim Council of Britain is concerned and deeply worried by the Home Secretary Charles Clarke’s decision today to extradite Babar Ahmad to the USA and fears that it could contribute to further alienation among some Muslim youths.

“This is a very sad day for all who value fairness and justice. It is unacceptable that under the Extradition Treaty 2003 there is no longer any need for the US government to prove to a UK court or even to the Home Secretary that there is a prima facie case against British citizens. We are very disappointed that the Home Secretary has agreed to this extradition request and we call on him to renegotiate the Extradition Treaty 2003 so that it better protects our citizens – whether Muslims or non-Muslims – from this type of manifest injustice. If our government has any evidence of wrongdoing on the part of Babar Ahmad then he should be charged in this country and put on trial here”, said Sir Iqbal Sacranie, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain.

The MCB expects that the Home Secretary’s flawed judgement in this matter will be vigorously challenged in British Courts where we hope it will be overturned in the interest of justice.

Press: Contact Inayat on 07956 353 738

      [ENDS]
November 16, 2005 in Press Releases
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