Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Detention of Alaa Abd el-Fattah

05 December 2024 · 1 other contributor

Opened by John McDonnell Lab Hayes and Harlington

ImmigrationAsylum & RefugeesForeign Affairs

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

John McDonnell raised concerns about detention of alaa abd el-fattah in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • John McDonnell called for the release of British-Egyptian writer Alaa Abd el-Fattah, imprisoned in Egypt for a decade.
  • Hamish Falconer stated that the UK considers Alaa's case a priority and maintains his status as a British national.
  • The minister noted ongoing diplomatic engagement with Egypt to urge for Alaa's release, including meetings with Egyptian officials.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

John McDonnell Lab Hayes and Harlington

John McDonnell called for the release of British-Egyptian writer Alaa Abd el-Fattah, who has been imprisoned in Egypt for a decade. He highlighted that Alaa's most recent five-year sentence ended on September 29th but was denied release due to pre-trial detention time not counting towards his sentence. McDonnell provided background on Alaa’s imprisonment history and the international support he received, including from four UK Prime Ministers, several world leaders, and numerous organisations. He detailed Laila Soueif's hunger strike for her son's release and Alaa's lack of access to consular services despite becoming a British citizen.

Other contributors (1)
  • Caroline Nokes Con R Isle of Wight

    Ordered John McDonnell not to refer to the right hon. Member for Richmond and Northallerton by name.

Government Response

Hamish Falconer

Hamish Falconer acknowledged Alaa's case as a priority for the UK Government, noting its impact on his family. He reiterated that the UK maintains Alaa’s status as a British national and is entitled to consular access under international law. The minister outlined ongoing engagement with Egypt through high-level diplomatic channels, including meetings with Foreign Minister Abdelatty and President Sisi, urging for Alaa's release. He committed to continued efforts despite Egypt's importance in regional peace and security initiatives. Falconer also confirmed the Government’s commitment to regular updates on progress.

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