The Committee against torture is holding its 66th session from 23 April to 17 May 2019.
On the occasion of the United Kingdom's review at this session, FIACAT and ACAT UK submitted a joint alternative report on the implementation of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment in the United Kingdom.
Thus, FIACAT and ACAT UK wished to draw the attention of the experts of the Committee on the defence of "Lawful authority, justification or excuse" to acts of torture in the Criminal Justice Act 1988 which contravenes article 2 of the Convention. FIACAT and ACAT UK also expressed concerns on the lack of accountability for abuses of Iraqi citizens by British service personnel in Iraq between 2003 and 2009.
Therefore, FIACAT and ACAT UK invite the Committee against Torture to recommend to the UK to :
- repeal sections 134 (4) and (5) of the Criminal Justice Act 1988, to ensure that no justification or excuse can be invoked for the commission of acts of torture;
- ensure that all perpetrators of torture and ill-treatment are adequately prosecuted and punished and that effective reparations are granted to all the victims.
 CAT UK May 2019 - FIACAT and ACAT UK alternative report |
