"Enemy Combatant" ruling should not halt international pressure

2.00.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 13th Jun 2007

Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP, Liberal Democrat European justice spokeswoman, has welcomed the decision by the US Court of Appeals which has ordered President Bush to transfer the supposed 'enemy combatant', Ali Saleh Kahlah al-Marri, from military custody to allow his trial to take place in a criminal court.

Welcoming the verdict, which ruled 2-1 against the US Government, Baroness Ludford said:

"This decision further undermines President Bush's invented catagory of 'enemy combatant'. The US legal system appears to be reasserting its legitimate role in a positive manner. This may actually secure some terrorist convictions at last."

Baroness Ludford added:

"This judgement shows that pressure by international 'critical friends' has made an impact. The European Union should continue to oppose Bush's abuse of his executive powers, and provide the firm but honest advice which friends afford to each other".