Prime Minister's Questions: Gary McKinnon
21st July 2010
David Burrowes thanks the Prime Minister for raising the case of Gary McKinnon with the US President this week, and asks if there are now grounds for optimism in regard to this case.
Mr David Burrowes (Enfield, Southgate) (Con): May I express my gratitude for the Prime Minister raising the case of my constituent Gary McKinnon with the US President? Given the mutual commitment to find a way through and seek an appropriate solution, are there now real grounds for optimism that there is light at the end of a tortuous tunnel for Gary McKinnon?
The Deputy Prime Minister: I have long been associated with this case, and I would like to pay tribute to my hon. Friend for all the work that he has done on behalf of Gary McKinnon. No one doubts the gravity of the offences that Gary McKinnon is alleged to have committed. That is beyond question; the simple question is whether he should, in the circumstances, be tried here or extradited to the United States. The Prime Minister and the President of the United States indicated yesterday that they have had a discussion about Gary McKinnon and that, notwithstanding the gravity of the alleged crimes, they hope to find a way forward.
