British MPs raise alarm over human rights abuses in Bangladesh

A cross-party group of MPs has tabled an Early Day Motion (EDM) in the House of Commons raising concerns about alleged human rights abuses in Bangladesh, including the imprisonment without charge of former politicians, journalists and judges.

The motion, EDM 2428, was tabled on 3 December and has been signed by 13 MPs from across the political spectrum. It warns that “justice delayed is justice denied” and highlights reports that many detainees have been held for more than a year without formal charges.

MPs also expressed concern over what the motion describes as a resurgence of abuses by state institutions following the resignation of Bangladesh’s previous government. The motion cites figures from the human rights organisation Odhikar, which has documented more than 40 alleged extrajudicial killings in the past 15 months.

The EDM urges the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, to ensure that minority rights are respected and that the proper judicial process is followed. The motion is sponsored by Barry Gardiner, the Labour MP for Brent West; Andrew George, Liberal Democrat MP for St Ives; and Green Party MPs Carla Denyer (Bristol Central), Siân Berry (Brighton Pavilion), Adrian Ramsay (Waveney Valley) and Dr Ellie Chowns (North Herefordshire).

It has also been signed by Bob Blackman, the Conservative MP for Harrow East; Plaid Cymru MPs Liz Saville Roberts (Dwyfor Meirionnydd), Llinos Medi (Ynys Môn) and Ben Lake (Ceredigion Preseli); Rachael Maskell, the Labour MP for York Central; Chris Law of the Scottish National Party (Dundee Central); and the independent MP Jeremy Corbyn.

Early Day Motions are often used by MPs to highlight issues of concern and signal the level of parliamentary support for a particular cause.