UK SIGNS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH LIBYA

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office announced that the UK Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Libya, on 18 October, to facilitate deportation of persons suspected of activities associated with terrorism.

The MOU was signed in Tripoli by Her Majesty's Ambassador to Libya, Anthony Layden and the Libyan Acting Secretary for European Affairs, Abdulati Ibrahim al-Obidi.

The Government firmly believes that the assurances provided by this type of MOU should enable the British Courts to allow the deportation of foreign nationals who threaten national security or whose presence is not conducive to the public good; and that such deportations will uphold the UK's international obligations.

The dreadful attacks in London on 7 July have served to remind us all of the tragic consequences of international terrorism and underline the need to work together for a truly effective international response. Against this background we appreciate the collaborative approach of the Libyan authorities on this issue which will further enhance co-operation between our two countries.

Notes to Editors

2. Copies of the UK/Libya MOU will be available in the library of the House of Commons and the library of the House of Lords today.
4. The UK signed a similar MOU with the Kingdom of Jordan on 10 August.
6. The Home Secretary referred to this ongoing work in a statement to the House of Commons on 26 January. On 5 August 2005, the Prime Minister announced that we had reached agreement with Jordan, and referred to constructive discussions with Lebanon and Algeria. MOU negotiations with these and other North African and Middle East countries continue. We will confirm which other countries when negotiations are complete.

Further information

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