Foreign Secretary offers a financial lifeline to Dunn family
Foreign Secretary offers financial lifeline to family’s quest for justice
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has backed the family of Harry Dunn in their attempt to pursue his alleged killer in the US courts.
The relationship between the Dunn family and Raab has been strained at times, with Raab refusing to speak to Harry’s father Tim at a hustings last year. The atmosphere soured further when the Government threatened the family with huge legal bills. However, in a letter sent to Harry’s parents, Raab said he was a supporter of their attempt to pursue Anne Sacoolas in the American courts and even offered funding for their travel and accommodation. The letter has only just come to light as court papers in the US are being examined.
The family have turned to the American judicial system after coming up against a brick wall in the UK. Having left the country under diplomatic immunity following Harry’s death, Anne Sacoolas, who has admitted being both on the wrong side of the road and behind the wheel of the vehicle that struck Harry, has refused to return to the UK to face justice. With the Americans rejecting two extradition attempts, the family are attempting a civil case in Virginia, where Sacoolas lives. Sacoolas’ lawyers are currently attempting to have the case dismissed.
In the letter to the family Raab
‘Harry’s case amounts to a denial of justice’ FOREIGN SECRETARY DOMINIC RAAB
wrote: “I strongly support your right to bring this case… As we have said publicly, we believe that what has happened in Harry’s case amounts to a denial of justice.
“In comparable circumstances, the UK would waive immunity. I hope therefore your action in the United States is able to proceed.”