UK plotting to help Assad dodge war crime probe

BRITISH diplomats are secretly plotting to help Syrian President Bashar al-Assad escape justice for his alleged war crimes.

The shock move comes only months after Assad’s most recent chemical attacks – and follows Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson’s declaration that Assad is an ‘arch terrorist’ who should face a criminal probe for his part in a war that has killed half a million people.

The secret UK plan to ensure the dictator clings to power for the time being and avoids being put on trial is revealed in a letter by a Foreign Office Minister who adds: ‘There is a change afoot, albeit with a clear retirement/exile plan for Assad to be agreed.’

A Foreign Office spokesman last night refused to comment on the Minister’s letter and stated the official line: ‘There needs to be a transition away from Assad to a government that can protect the rights of all Syrians, unite the country and end the conflict.’