(Press Release by Hon Gareth Thomas MP)

The Maldives, a dream destination for UK honeymooners and holidaymakers, celebrates 45 years of independence from the UK today, in turmoil.

President Nasheed, former Amnesty International Prisoner of Conscience and friend of William Hague, is at the centre of growing international concern over the health of democracy in the islands just two years since the country’s first democratic elections.

Concern at the rise in political tensions has prompted a Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel warning for British tourists.

Opposition MPs have been arrested, troops deployed on the capital’s streets and the Chief Justice and other members of the judiciary are facing intimidation.

Gareth Thomas MP has called on William Hague to intervene, as Hague knows President Nasheed well having invited him to speak at the Conservative Party Conference last year.

Gareth Thomas, Shadow International Development Minister said;

‘The threats to the independence of Parliament and to the Judiciary demand our interest given Britain’s historical ties and trading relationship with the Maldives.

William Hague is in the region this week and should visit the Maldives to register at the highest level our growing concern over the health of democracy in the country.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

For more information contact Gareth Thomas MP’s Parliamentary Office on 020 7219 4243

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