MI6 investigation makes case for full torture inquiry even stronger - Davey

“At the very least we need to know where and when this occurred, and what kind of incident is being investigated," said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Foreign Secretary. Commenting on the revelation that the Metropolitan Police are to investigate allegations of MI6 complicity in torture, Edward Davey said:

“Given the gravity and number of allegations of UK complicity in torture, separate limited police investigations alone are inadequate.

“The case for a full judicial inquiry has become even stronger.

“The lack of information available on this case is unacceptable. There are surely many more details the Government could reveal which would not prejudice the case but are vital matters of public interest.

“At the very least we need to know where and when this occurred, and what kind of incident is being investigated. We also need to know what has suddenly prompted this apparent outbreak of conscience at MI6. Otherwise, the public may feel information is being kept secret to save political embarrassment.”

Davey: Blair must come clean on torture or quit as MidEast envoy

Reacting to the allegations that Tony Blair knew about secret interrogation guidance for British intelligence officers who became aware of the torture of suspects, Edward Davey said; "Surely Tony Blair cannot hold the position of Middle East Envoy when he stands accused of breaking the UN Convention against torture".

Liberal Democrat Shadow Foreign Secretary said; "He needs to either make clear what he knew about the torture policy or stand down as envoy. He cannot have it both ways."

"There are also serious questions to answer for both Jack Straw and David Blunkett. They had oversight of MI6 and MI5 at the time, and should have known about any guidance their agents had been given."

Edward Davey called for a debate over the guidance regarding the abuse of suspects under interrogation provided to the security services at Business Questions in Parliament today.

Ed concluded that "Parliament must be allowed a debate on the issue of oversight of guidance on interrogation and the current Justice Secretary, given his long-term involvement in this issue, should respond for the Government."