Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Ryan Cornelius: Detention in UAE

19 November 2024 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Tim Roca Lab Macclesfield

Foreign AffairsNHS

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Tim Roca raised concerns about ryan cornelius: detention in uae in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • British citizen Ryan Cornelius has been arbitrarily detained in Dubai since 2008.
  • The MP for Macclesfield urged the UAE to release Cornelius to improve UK-UAE relations.
  • The Minister for the Middle East confirmed ongoing FCDO efforts to raise the case with UAE authorities.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Tim Roca Lab Macclesfield

The MP for Macclesfield raised the issue of British citizen Ryan Cornelius being arbitrarily detained in Dubai since 2008, urging his release as a gesture of goodwill towards the United Kingdom. The debate highlighted the close relationship between the UK and UAE in trade, tourism, and defence, emphasising that Cornelius's detention could damage this relationship. The MP detailed Cornelius’s legal challenges and the impact on him and his family, urging the UAE authorities to consider clemency as part of a wider effort to address human rights concerns.

Other contributors (1)
  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Expressed gratitude for the attention given to British nationals arbitrarily detained abroad, emphasising the need for effective support and advocacy by UK officials.

Government Response

Anneliese Dodds

The Minister for the Middle East acknowledged the case of Ryan Cornelius and the impact it has had on him and his family. She assured that FCDO consular staff regularly visit Cornelius in Dubai and are in contact with his family, reflecting the priority given to this case by the Government. The Minister reaffirmed ongoing efforts to raise the case with UAE authorities, including ministerial meetings and written communications. Despite legal constraints, the FCDO continues to provide consular support and advocate for Cornelius's welfare, underlining the importance of respecting local legal processes while upholding human rights standards.

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