TO what extent should the financial practicalities of trade override the rule of law? The question has been thrust into the spotlight following the alleged murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul at the start of the month.
Turkey alleges Mr Khashoggi was killed by a Saudi Arabian hit squad. The claim is refuted by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman, but Turkish investigators insist they have audio and video evidence implicating Saudi nationals.
Donald Trump has been reluctant to criticise Saudi Arabia, citing the Middle Eastern nation’s trade ties with the US as a reason to tread carefully.
It is to be hoped the British Government has no such concerns. Yes, Britain exported goods worth around £4.2bn to Saudi Arabia in 2017. Yes, Britain relies on Saudi Arabia for around three per cent of its oil.
But having been so critical of Russia’s alleged involvement in the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal in Salisbury, it would be extremely hypocritical of Theresa May and her Government to refuse to wholeheartedly back the Turkish authorities as they investigate claims of Saudi involvement in a murder on foreign soil.
International trade secretary Liam Fox has pulled out of a conference in Saudi Arabia. That is a wise move. However, the British Government must also be prepared to push for international sanctions if Saudi involvement in Mr Khashoggi’s murder is proved.
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