Taliban must free journalist, says Simpson

JOHN Simpson has spoken of his fears for his close friend and former BBC cameraman who’s being held captive by the

Taliban.

Distinguished British journalist Peter Jouvenal, 64, has been locked in a cell without being charged or given legal help since he was arrested in Kabul two months ago.

Mr Simpson, the BBC’s world affairs editor, said: ‘Conditions are bad. It’s bitterly cold, and all they have to eat each day is a bowl of rice. He has no access to the medicine he needs.’

Mr Jouvenal has worked and travelled in Afghanistan for more than 40 years, is married to an Afghan woman and they have three children.

Mr Simpson last saw his friend in November – three months after the Taliban returned to power when Western troops left.