Thank you for contacting me about Julian Assange.
I was encouraged to see the situation in the Ecuadorean embassy finally come to an end. Ecuador’s actions recognise that the UK’s criminal justice system is one in which rights are protected and in which, contrary to what Mr Assange and his supporters may claim, he and his legitimate interests will be protected.
As you will know, in May, as a result of Mr Assange’s failure to surrender in relation to his extradition proceedings, he was sentenced to 50 weeks in prison.
You may also be aware that the Home Secretary recently signed an extradition warrant, following a request by the US Department of Justice. In making this decision, the Home Secretary had limitations on what could be considered, in line with the Crime and Courts Act 2013; judgments on human rights or health issues can only be made in court.
The judgment from the administrative hearing at the Westminster magistrates’ court has ruled that Mr Assange will face a five-day US extradition hearing, beginning on the 25 February 2020.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Craig Whittaker MP
October 2019