UK: Egypt 529 death sentences 'unacceptable'

UK Foreign Secretary William Hague expressed his concern over the death sentences of 529 Egyptians handed down by the Minya court on Monday.

In a press release, Hague said he is “deeply concerned” by the news, and condemned the fact that defendants were not appropriately represented.

“We urge the Egyptian authorities to ensure full respect for defendants’ rights, and hope they will review this unacceptable sentence,” Hague said.

“It is the long-standing policy of Her Majesty’s Government to oppose the death penalty in all circumstances as a matter of principle,” he added.