Pinochet Faces Prosecution in Britain if Spain Drops Extradition Request

Strategic Insights -

British authorities may pursue prosecution of Chilean dictator Gen Augusto Pinochet if Spain's extradition request is dropped, due to a complaint filed by human rights group Amnesty International. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has confirmed that it would consider charges against Pinochet in the UK, citing the UN Convention against Torture. The move has sparked criticism from Conservative politicians, who argue it would be an "outrage" and an "act of turpitude" by the Government.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gen Augusto Pinochet, 83, could face charges in Britain if Spain drops its extradition request, citing a complaint filed by Amnesty International.
  • The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that it would consider charges against Pinochet in the UK, citing the UN Convention against Torture.
  • The CPS has received extradition requests from France and Switzerland, which are currently on hold due to the Spanish proceedings.
  • A British police investigation is a possible option if Spain abandons its action.
  • The CPS would need to decide whether there is sufficient evidence for a prosecution before bringing charges.
  • The British Government's consideration of prosecution has sparked criticism from Conservative politicians, who argue it would damage relations with Chile and potentially impact the Falklands.
  • Conservative backbencher Mr. Howarth has stated that Pinochet's potential prosecution would be an "outrage" and an "act of turpitude" on the part of the Government.

Statistics:

  • Pinochet has been held in Britain since his arrest in October 1998.
  • The UN Convention against Torture forms the basis for potential charges against Pinochet in the UK.
  • Extradition requests from France and Switzerland are currently on hold, pending the outcome of the Spanish proceedings.

Sources:

  • "Extradition requests spark concern The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has expressed concerns about the recruitment of foreign lawyers by the prosecution service." (The Independent, October 5, 1998)
  • "Pinochet faces charges if Spain drops extradition request" (BBC News, October 14, 1998)
  • "Chile offers deal to Spain to drop Pinochet charges" (Reuters, October 15, 1998)