Simon Chapman Case: Further Questions

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 4th Dec 2003

Sarah Ludford meeting Ambassador Agathocles (right) with colleagues Anna Terron MEP from Spain and Karl-Erik Olsson MEP from Sweden.

London's Lib Dem Euro-MP Baroness Sarah Ludford has met with Greece's representative to the EU, Ambassador Aristide Agathocles, to discuss the serious concerns surrounding the arrest and charge of her constituent Simon Chapman. She was accompanied by other MEP colleagues raising justice concerns on behalf of their constituents.

Sarah asked him to convey to the Athens authorities her thanks for the interest taken by Greek ministers which undoubtedly helped to get an end to the hunger strike through the release of Simon and his companions from prison.

But she also stressed the need for a timely trial without undue delay and for a full and extensive inquiry into the questionable behaviour of the Greek police given the film record which appears to show planting of evidence. Sarah also emphasised how important it is that Simon's bail conditions should be altered so he can return home to see his family and earn a living while the trial is awaited.

Sarah Ludford said:

"I welcomed the opportunity to have a full and clear discussion with Ambassador Agathocles about the case of Simon and the rest of the 'Thessaloniki Seven'. He undertook to find out when we can expect a result from the judicial investigation into the police arrests."

"We agreed that wherever in Europe there is police malpractice, it must be rooted out, and I know that the Greek government shares a concern to raise judicial standards throughout the EU."

"I am assured that the Ambassador will convey to Athens the serious worries about Simon's case and the compassionate grounds for his return to the UK in time for Christmas."