Guardian: Peers call for independent inquiry into allegations of UK role in torture

[BuyingThyme]

Peers call for independent inquiry into allegations of UK role in torture

Former defence and foreign secretaries and retired army head say those who break law must be held to account

* Ian Cobain
* guardian.co.uk, Wednesday 25 March 2009 12.01 GMT

Thirteen peers today added their voices to the calls for an independent inquiry into allegations about Britain's role in torture and extraordinary rendition.

The group – which includes a former foreign secretary, a former defence secretary, a retired chief of the defence staff and a former ambassador to the UN – insist that only an independent inquiry can meet the need to hold to account those who break British and international law.

Writing in a letter in the Times, the peers say that although the government has repeatedly denied that it condones torture, "the conflict between evidence and official denials is stark, and is undermining trust in our stated commitment to human rights".

...

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2009/mar/25/peers-call-for-independent-torture-inquiry

***

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/letters/article5969832.ece

[EFerrari]

1. So, what are we doing to do? Maybe we need to write to Obama

once a week like we used to write for Don Seigelman and say, you swore to God to uphold the law, now do it. Get out of the way and appoint a special prosecutor. Every Sunday night to mail on Monday. It doesn't have to be Shakespeare. "Do your job and appoint a Special Prosecutor."

[Idealism]

2. I can't stand the feeling of helplessness as I watch my country turn into Russia

:(

[EFerrari]

4. Well, neither can I. Why don't I put up a thread @ about 5 your time

on Sundays. Help me keep it kicked and let's see if we can get some people writing. I'm really, really hoping the Brits move on this because if they do, we have to.

[Idealism]

6. Sounds like a plan, E!

I'll be here somewhere:hide:

[EFerrari]

7. Okay. Don't worry. I don't have a goon squad!

lol

And maybe we'll get some spontaneous twoops. :hi:

[Idealism]

8. Bueno! Hasta manana

[BuyingThyme]

3. I've taken to calling them President Obama's Obstruction of Justice Department.

I think it has a ring to it.

[EFerrari]

5. LOL! They're all lawyers, though. Even Michelle.

They know what they have to do.

[Solly Mack]

9. K&R

[BuyingThyme]

10. ..