Brown Faces Backlash Over Libya Relations

Fears of straining relations with the US have arisen as British Prime Minister Gordon Brown's government has come under fire for its handling of Libya, particularly regarding compensation for IRA victims and the early release of the Lockerbie bomber. Families of the victims and opposition leaders have criticized the prime minister for not taking a firmer stance with Libya, citing concerns over oil deals as a major factor in the government's decision-making process. Meanwhile, relations with US President Barack Obama have been strained due to the prolonged absence of communication between the two leaders.

Key Takeaways:

• The prime minister has been criticized by families of IRA victims for refusing to put formal pressure on Libya to pay compensation, which they claim is due to them given Libya's supply of explosives to the IRA.
• Brown has denied accusations that the desire for oil deals with Libya had overridden other concerns, stating that the government's priority was to ensure Libya supports the fight against terrorism and gives up its nuclear weapons.
• Downing Street confirmed that the prime minister last spoke to President Obama on July 24, fueling fears that relations with the US are being strained due to the ongoing row over Libya.
• The Scottish government was also faced with allegations over the decision to release Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed al-Megrahi from prison, with reports suggesting that medical evidence submitted by the Libyans had influenced the decision.
• The Conservatives called for an independent inquiry into the handling of the case, citing Brown's admission as a "stunning" failure to support the families of IRA victims in their pursuit of compensation.
• The opposition party also suggested that the British government should have provided active support to the families as a matter of course, rather than waiting for public pressure.

Statistics:

• July 24: The last time Gordon Brown spoke to Barack Obama, according to Downing Street.
• September and October: The months when Gordon Brown sent letters via Jason McCue, a lawyer acting for people seeking compensation for IRA atrocities, stating that it would not be appropriate to enter into a bilateral discussion with Libya on the matter.
• 3: The number of doctors paid by the Libyans who submitted medical evidence used to secure the release of Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed al-Megrahi from prison.

Sources:

• "Gordon Brown: apology for Lockerbie bomber release". BBC News, 2009.
• "US relations strained as Brown slips with Lockerbie families". The Times of India, 2009.
• "Revelations over Lockerbie bomber deal strengthen calls for inquiry". The Scotsman, 2009.