Interpol

Debate between Lord Henley and Lord Bishop of Oxford

Wednesday 30th November 2011 Lords Chamber

[Lord Harries of Pentregarth]

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what means they have to hold Interpol to account, especially where United Kingdom citizens are involved.

[The Minister of State, Home Office (Lord Henley)]

My Lords, Interpol facilitates international police co-operation. It does not have executive powers and its agents do not make arrests. Interpol is held to account by its member countries, through processes including the annual general assembly and the Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files.

[Lord Harries of Pentregarth]

I thank the Minister for his answer. Is he aware that the Interpol red notice system is being abused by some Governments for political reasons? In particular, I have in mind Benny Wenda, the West Papuan independence leader, who was granted asylum in this country. As a UK citizen, he has suddenly been served with a red notice. Will the Minister agree to take up with Interpol the question of whether this notice violates Article 3 of the Interpol constitution, which expressly forbids such notices being served for political reasons?