USE OF THE DEATH PENALTY IN SAUDI ARABIA

That this House is extremely alarmed by recent executions in Saudi Arabia and reports that further executions, possibly followed by crucifixion, may take place soon; notes with considerable concern assertions made by human rights organisations that many on death row have been tortured or otherwise coerced into signing confessions and denied many fair trial guarantees, and that some have been sentenced to death for alleged activity that should not even be considered criminal, such as participating in demonstrations; is appalled that those who were juveniles at the time of their alleged crimes are facing the death penalty, in contravention of international law; further notes also that the death penalty sadly continues to be in use, and misused, in many other countries, including Iran where prisoners convicted of petty drugs offences continue to be executed; asks the Saudi Government to quash its death sentences and establish an official moratorium on executions immediately; and calls on the Government to make representations to the Saudi Government to end its use of the death penalty and to bring its judicial system in line with international standards as a matter of urgency.