asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will give details of the efforts his Department has made to mobilise international support on behalf of the Birmingham Six and the Guildford Four; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - International Support For Prisoners.
26.
The Government issued a statement on 28 January expressing their great regret and disappointment at the decision of the court of appeal in London to maintain the convictions and sentences of the Birmingham Six. Subsequently, the Six have requested the House of Lords to hear their appeal. The Government would wish to withold further comment on the case until the outcome of this is known.
In regard to the Guildford Four, the Deputy will be aware that a police investigation is currently taking place into new evidence which has become available in the case. This police investigation is expected to be completed shortly and the results will be presented to the Home Secretary for his consideration. The Government will await the outcome of the Home Secretary's consideration of the matter before making further comment.