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| <office@sarahludfordmep.org.uk> | Sarah Ludford MEP | 15th March 2010 |
Ludford backs EU calls for Alan Johnston release1.43.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 26th Apr 2007
London's Liberal Democrat MEP and vice-chair of the sub-committee on human rights Baroness Sarah Ludford is backing a European Parliament resolution calling for the immediate release of BBC journalist Alan Johnston. In speaking in support of the resolution in Strasbourg she says: "The European Parliament is rightly adding its voice to the chorus of disapproval in Gaza itself and around the world. Multi-lateral, world-wide pressure can only help Mr Johnston's cause." "The tragedy of this is firstly the risk to a brave and honourable reporter, but secondly the harm it does to the Palestinian people in losing that window to the outside that Alan almost single-handedly was giving them. The kidnappers are doing no favours at all to the Palestinian cause." "His abduction, which adds to the dreadful tally of attacks on journalists over the years, does huge damage to the interests of press freedom without which free democracies cannot exist. As we insist on the safe return of Alan Johnston, we salute the courage of all journalists who put their safety on the line in order to bring the truth to the world."
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Related News Stories:Mon 28th Jul 2008: European Parliament backs young people's voice - Ludford. Thu 3rd Jul 2008: Sarah Ludford on the release of Ingrid Betancourt. Fri 6th Jul 2007: Alan Johnston's freedom should trigger further releases . Wed 4th Jul 2007: Alan Johnston's release brings ray of hope to Middle East. Thu 29th Mar 2007: Ludford welcomes Bisher al-Rawi release. Fri 17th Nov 2006: Ludford welcomes Hussain's release . Thu 23rd Jun 2005: Sarah Ludford MEP welcomes release of British citizen held in Azerbaijan. Fri 21st Nov 2003: Sarah Ludford backs alternative plans to save Camden Market. Related Speeches:Thu 26th Apr 2007: Thu 17th Jan 2002: Published and promoted by Ashley Lumsden on behalf of Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP and the Liberal Democrats, all at 4 Cowley Street, London SW1P 3NB. The views expressed are those of the party, not of the service provider. |