Law Society President's concerns over Pakistan

Richard Henderson writes to High Commissioner over fears for rule of law

News, 8 November 2007

The President of the Law Society of Scotland, Richard Henderson, has written to the Pakistan High Commissioner in London and the Consul General in Glasgow, expressing his concern at recent events in the country.

The letter states: “I am writing to you to express the concern of the Law Society of Scotland about recent and continuing events in Pakistan, which, as I understand it have involved the proclamation of an emergency and the continued placing of the constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in abeyance.

“I understand further that emergency restrictions have been put in place including restrictions on the operation of the courts and the arrest or detention of members of the legal profession. I have seen reports also which suggest repressive action has been taken... in relation to the legal profession in Pakistan."

The letter continues: “Speaking on behalf of the solicitor profession in Scotland, it is my view that the actions of the government of Pakistan in this matter strike at the heart of the rule of law in Pakistan.

"I am concerned at the arrest and continued detention of lawyers and judges in Pakistan and I call on the government of Pakistan not only to reflect seriously on its actions, but to take immediate steps to re-establish the rule of law including the release of those judges and lawyers who may currently be under restriction, detention or arrest in Pakistan.”