Letter: Fight for babies in foreign jails

Fight for babies in foreign jails

Sir: Your article "Fears for babies in foreign prisons" (28 October) outlines some of the problems experienced by British women held overseas. Prisoners Abroad is very concerned for these babies and their mothers.

The number of women held overseas has increased over the past two years from 5 per cent to 10 per cent of the total of detainees. Prisoners Abroad is supporting around 120 women, the vast majority convicted for a drugs- related crime. The simple answer is to request for their early release, but this may not be in the best interests of justice.

Two possible solutions may meet both competing needs. First, where possible, these women could be transferred back to the UK to complete their sentences. Where this is not possible, optimal prison settings should be provided.

CARLO LAURENZI

Executive Director

Prisoners Abroad

London EC1