Julian Assange: a letter to the Home Secretary

Peter Hitchens has urged a write-in to the Home Secretary. Here is my letter; I hope you can send one also – and urge others to do so.
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Dear Home Secretary

Request to Halt the Extradition of Julian Assange

I appeal to you to decline the extradition to the USA of Mr Julian Assange, for several reasons.

Firstly, it is widely suspected that the espionage charges levelled against him are an inappropriate or even improper use of US law and arise from political purposes. There are also question marks over the motivation and conduct of the authorities in Sweden in pursuing longstanding investigations that were discontinued in 2019 following his removal from the Ecuadorian Embassy and being placed under arrest here. Further, doubts have been expressed about some aspects of the proceedings in Westminster Magistrates Court and the extent to which they may have been influenced by external considerations and agencies. In a globally high-profile case such as this it is especially important that Britain should be seen to uphold its traditional commitment to justice and the liberty of the individual.

Secondly, some worry that Mr Assange may not face a fair trial if extradited, given that his case is cast in terms of a threat to US national security at a time when public feelings are febrile. Moreover, bearing in mind his fragile and apparently declining physical and mental health there is unease over the treatment he may receive in jail before, during and after trial. Notwithstanding assurances given by US authorities, there may still be, as there has previously been, a failure by them to safeguard a potentially suicidal prisoner.

Finally, the Assange affair has far wider implications for the principles of freedom of the press, freedom of speech, and the protection of whistleblowers worldwide. It is essential to recognize the potential chilling effect that his extradition could have on investigative journalism and the critical role it plays in a democratic society. By declining the extradition request, you can reaffirm Britain’s commitment to these fundamental values.

I humbly request that you call a halt to these proceedings and release Mr Assange.