Prisoners Abroad welcomes the appointment of the UK’s first Envoy for Complex Consular Detentions

PRESS RELEASE

Prisoners Abroad welcomes the Government’s announcement of the appointment of Alistair Burt as the UK’s first Envoy for Complex Consular Detentions. The creation of this role is an important recognition of the profound challenges faced by British nationals detained overseas and by the families who support them.  

Every year, Prisoners Abroad supports British people imprisoned overseas in a wide range of circumstances, including cases involving serious welfare concerns, lengthy detention, poor prison conditions, barriers to fair process, and significant impacts on families in the UK. We know how isolating and distressing these situations can be, both for those in prison and for those waiting for news at home. 

The new Envoy role has the potential to bring greater senior-level focus to the most complex detention cases, strengthen coordination across government, and ensure that the voices of detainees and their families are heard. We particularly welcome the emphasis within the role's terms of reference on family engagement, human rights considerations, strategic oversight and independent challenge.  

For this initiative to succeed, it will be important that the Envoy is empowered to provide robust challenge, maintain close engagement with affected families, and help ensure that every appropriate avenue is pursued in support of British nationals facing the most difficult circumstances overseas. The Government's commitment must also be matched by sustained investment in specialist consular support and the services that help detainees and families navigate often lengthy and complex situations.  

Prisoners Abroad looks forward to working constructively with the Envoy and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to help improve outcomes for British nationals detained overseas and to ensure that the experiences of people in prison abroad and families continue to inform policy and practice. 

For Press:

[email protected]

T: +44 (0) 20 7561 6820 (option 5)

 For more information about press enquiries, click here.