Britain to review extradition laws, tighten rules for cases involving US warrants
By APWednesday, September 8, 2010
UK to review extraditions, tighten up on US cases
LONDON — Britain will review its extradition laws following criticism that it is too easy for the U.S. to extradite suspects from the country.
Officials say Home Secretary Theresa May plans to announce details of the planned yearlong review Wednesday.
Lawyers complain that under “fast track” extradition procedures introduced after the Sept. 11 attacks, the U.S. is not required to offer substantial proof of an allegation when seeking to extradite a suspect from Britain.
Earlier this year, May ordered a halt to the extradition of hacker Gary McKinnon, who is wanted in the U.S. for allegedly breaking into American military computers, while the review is carried out.
Proposals for changes to the law are expected by September 2011.
