ARREST OF MR MOHAMMAD MOSTAFAEI

That this House notes with serious concern the arrest on 25 June 2009 of Iranian human rights lawyer Mr Mohammad Mostafaei; further notes that Mr Mostafaei is a defence lawyer for minors facing the death penalty in Iran and is currently representing more than 25 Iranian juveniles facing execution; further notes that Iran is one of five nations that continue to execute children contrary to international law and its obligations as a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; shares concerns echoed by human rights charities that several known human rights defenders and lawyers have in recent weeks been arrested in Iran and are thought to be at risk of torture and attempted forced confessions; further notes that no charges have yet been brought against Mr Mostafaei; fears that Mr Mostafaei has been arrested for his human rights activities and for the peaceful exercise of his right to freedom of expression and association; calls upon the Iranian authorities to allow Mr Mostafaei immediate access to his family and lawyers; and further calls upon the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to make the strongest possible representations at all international levels regarding Mr Mostafaei's detention.