Government faces new claims over rendition flights from British airports

By GARETH ROSE
Published on 11/09/2012 00:00

THE UK government faces new questions over what it knew about allegations of extraordinary rendition flights from British airports.

The European Parliament is to press the UK, and other member states, about the CIA process of moving suspects around the world.

It had been claimed that, between October 2001 and July 2003, Prestwick Airport was used on four occasions by CIA-sponsored planes to refuel aircraft which were involved in transporting suspected terrorists to countries where they may undergo torture.

However, a Westminster committee said it found no evidence to support this.

Alyn Smith, an SNP MEP, said: “The allegations about extraordinary rendition are well known and the alleged treatment meted out to those in custody would add up to a succession of human rights violations on an incredible scale.

“Abduction, detention without trial, disappearance, secret prisons and torture have no place in any civilised society no matter what offence people are suspected of.

“I’m pleased that the European Parliament motion, which I believe will pass without difficulty, is putting new pressure on all member state governments to investigate and make it 
clear what went on in their countries.”