British Foreign Secretary Calls for Inquiry into Death of Sergei Magnitsky
The Daily Telegraph reports that British Foreign Secretary William Hague has raised questions about the death in custody of the Russian anti-corruption lawyer Sergei Magnitsky ahead of a diplomatic trip to Moscow.
In an exchange of letters with David Davis, the Conservative MP and former Home Secretary, Hague welcomed Russia's decision to investigate the lawyer's death, but added: "It is important that this investigation should be thorough and transparent if it is to address both human rights concerns and the effect of this case on investor confidence."
Magnitsky, who worked for London-based hedge fund Hermitage Capital Management, died in a Russian jail while awaiting trial for tax fraud charges brought by police officers he claimed were involved in a $230 million tax fraud. Magnitsky denied the charges. The Daily Telegraph comments that to Moscow's embarrassment, the case has garnered publicity in Russia and across the world.
Hague is hoping to smooth diplomatic ties with Moscow on his trip next month, but relations remain soured by a range of disputes - principally the controversial death of former KGB officer Alexander Litvinenko in London in 2006 and the suspension of British Council activities two years ago. Magnitsky's case may prove a further obstacle.
Sky News also reports that Hague called for Russia to hold a full inquiry into Magnitsky's death.