MP calls for clarity on use of lethal force

Following the publication of guidelines for British flagged ships using armed guards last month, the PM has urged clearer thoughts for the use of “lethal force” against pirates.

Vessels operating under the British flag have been given the all clear to use armed guards but the foreign affairs select committee said that clarity is needed regarding “what is permissible and what is not.”

The committee commented on piracy saying that the situation off the Somali coast was a major international issue and a direct threat to UK national interests. It has also encouraged the government to reassess its kidnap response procedure due to the criticism from recently released kidnap victims Paul and Rachel Chandler.

The Foreign Office has promised to respond to the cross-party committee's report following a thorough and in-depth study of the comments put forward.

William Hague, the UK Foreign Secretary, hopes to use the UK-chaired conference on Somalia next month as a chance to “chart a way forward” for piracy and other issues in the area.

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