Sir William Browder KCMG

I have written to the Prime Minister, supported by 68 fellow MPs and Peers from across Parliament, calling for urgent intervention in the case of British citizen Ryan Cornelius. Ryan is now 72 years old. He has already spent more than 18 years in a Dubai prison, and under his current sentence will not be released until 2038, when he will be 84. Seven UN human rights experts have called for his immediate release, warning that his deteriorating health puts him at risk of irreparable harm. Our letter sets out clear steps the Government must now take, including a public request for his release ahead of UAE National Day on 2 December, and targeted sanctions if that request is refused. The Prime Minister must now respond and make clear what action the Government intends to take. @10DowningStreet @FCDOGovUK The full letter is below.

For more than 18 years, Ryan Cornelius has been held in a Dubai prison, denied justice and separated from his family. His business partner, Charles Ridley, has also been imprisoned, and it is utterly unacceptable that British citizens should face what amounts to a life sentence with trumped up charges following proceedings condemned by the United Nations. dailymail.com/news/article-1… The British Government has a duty to protect its citizens, and after 18 years it is abundantly clear that quiet diplomacy has achieved nothing. That is why 69 MPs and Peers have come together to demand action. The UAE has an opportunity to put this right by releasing Ryan on its National Day. If it refuses, there must be consequences, including targeted sanctions against those responsible for prolonging his detention. Britain cannot continue to look the other way. Ryan and Charles must be brought home. @10DowningStreet @FCDOGovUK