The case of Albert Douglas has been raised to the highest levels of the British government. It’s been raised on the floor of Parliament several times and calls have been made by Baroness Whitaker and Andy Slaughter, MP for sanctions over his treatment. Progress has been made by Kensington MP Felicity Buchan, the new Foreign Secretary, Lizz Truss and Ambassador Moody in the UAE.

“After the death of Lee Bradley Brown in police custody and the torture of Matthew Hedges, the British government had hoped the UAE would cease brutality against citizens in detention, but there has been a history of trade and security interests being prioritised by both governments which has left individuals at risk of continued abuse”, added Stirling.

“With so much support, we hope that Dubai will release Albert Douglas imminently and that he will be returned to England where he can complete his surgeries under the care of his own health system and family.

“It is near impossible for the UAE to create the image of safety and modernity while Albert remains in detention. The European Parliament just boycotted Dubai’s expo over human rights concerns and there is an increasing opposition coming from the UK and US. It’s important that the UAE free Albert immediately and allow him to return to the UK. Anything less will be seen as the UAE supporting the torture and abuse of prisoners, and will raise alarm that innocent visitors could be beaten or even killed because they have chosen to take a holiday in or invest in Dubai”.

Stirling has called for assurances that this treatment will not be tolerated in the UAE.