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11/12/2008
PM Backs Backs Libya Terror Compensation Bid
Number 10 has changed tack on a vital issue affecting victims of The Troubles.
Prime Minister, Gordon Brown (pictured) has performed what is being seen as a U-turn and indicated he will - after all - throw UK diplomatic power behind Ulster's IRA victims in their search for compensation from Libya.
In an unexpected twist, the Prime Minister has said that he understands the need for the case to be settled and he will look at how he may help.
His shift in position came after discussions with a victims' delegation in London yesterday led by DUP MP Nigel Dodds and Labour MP Andrew MacKinlay.
Mr Dodds said afterwards: "Prior to our meeting the message which we had been getting from the Government was that there was nothing they could do on this matter.
"I am pleased that is no longer the case. The Prime Minister has indicated that the Government will help move the issue of compensation for victims forward."
The reversal of fortune breathes new life into the campaign which appeared to be badly damaged.
This was after a lawsuit in America - suing Libya and Colonel Gaddafi for billions for their role in sponsoring terrorism - was settled out of court.
Mr Dodds said: "People from all over the United Kingdom suffered at the hands of terrorists backed by the Gaddafi regime," he said, noting that the links between the Gaddafi regime and terrorist groups are well-documented and alleged that the Libyan leader funded terrorist groups around the world, including the IRA.
(BMcC)
Prime Minister, Gordon Brown (pictured) has performed what is being seen as a U-turn and indicated he will - after all - throw UK diplomatic power behind Ulster's IRA victims in their search for compensation from Libya.
In an unexpected twist, the Prime Minister has said that he understands the need for the case to be settled and he will look at how he may help.
His shift in position came after discussions with a victims' delegation in London yesterday led by DUP MP Nigel Dodds and Labour MP Andrew MacKinlay.
Mr Dodds said afterwards: "Prior to our meeting the message which we had been getting from the Government was that there was nothing they could do on this matter.
"I am pleased that is no longer the case. The Prime Minister has indicated that the Government will help move the issue of compensation for victims forward."
The reversal of fortune breathes new life into the campaign which appeared to be badly damaged.
This was after a lawsuit in America - suing Libya and Colonel Gaddafi for billions for their role in sponsoring terrorism - was settled out of court.
Mr Dodds said: "People from all over the United Kingdom suffered at the hands of terrorists backed by the Gaddafi regime," he said, noting that the links between the Gaddafi regime and terrorist groups are well-documented and alleged that the Libyan leader funded terrorist groups around the world, including the IRA.
(BMcC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
