Mckinnon is top of the bill!!
30th July 2010
Gary Mckinnon got top billing last week. First, becoming the centre of the Prime Minister and US President press conference which revealed that his case has been raised by David Cameron during discussions. Second, Gary's local MP raised his case during the last Prime Ministers Question, which was historic given it was presided over by the Liberal Democrat leader and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg who has also been highly supportive of Mr McKinnon over the duration of his campaign.
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? Give 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.
David said "I was delighted that the Prime Minister raised Gary Mckinnon's case with the US President at his first formal meeting in the US. Amidst all the pressing issues it is significant that the Prime Minister chose to raise Gary's case. It is in stark contrast with the previous Government who wanted to wash their hands of Gary. It was reassuring that the Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed on the floor of the Commons that the Government will try and 'find a way through'. As I said in the Commons I am cautiously optimistic that there is light at the end of the tunnel for Gary and I will keep pressing his case with Ministers and in Parliament until we receive a just outcome."
