Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what support his Department provides to British citizens and their families in cases where (a) suspicious deaths occur abroad and (b) local investigations are perceived to be inadequate.
FCDO consular staff offer tailored support to families bereaved through the death of British nationals overseas, including in cases where the authority overseas is investigating a death as suspicious or where the family have concerns about the investigation process overseas. This support can include advising families on how to raise concerns about the local investigation; signpost families on how to seek independent legal advice; and, where appropriate, refer families to relevant partner organisations for further support. FCDO staff can also register interest in the death with local authorities and request information and/or convey any concerns the family may have. The FCDO welcomes feedback on its service and is committed to continuous improvement.