Driver says extradition would breach human rights

A LORRY driver wanted in Belgium for alleged drugs offences believes that his human rights would be breached if he were sent to stand trial there.

Lawyers acting for Raymond Urquhart, 51, say it would breach their client’s right to a family life under European human rights legislation to extradite him.

Mr Urquhart, of Dunkeld Road, Perth, was arrested by Scottish police earlier this year over his alleged involvement in transporting cocaine and MDMA across international borders.

But Edinburgh Sheriff Court heard yesterday how Mr Urquhart acts as a carer for his elderly mother and his partner, who both have health problems.

The court heard how Mr Urquhart believes that if he were to be sent to Belgium, he would be unable to care for mum Heather Mills,73,.

He believes this would be breach Article Eight of the European Convention on Human Rights — the right to a family and private life.

Urquhart’s mum Heather told Sheriff Frank Crowe that her son helped her with everyday tasks.

When asked by defence solicitor Stephen Mannifield what kind of impact Mr Urquhart leaving Scotland would have on her, she replied: “It would be very hard.”

Urquhart, who originally appeared from custody, spoke only to confirm his name and to confirm he opposed extradition at an earlier hearing.

Sheriff Frank Crowe adjourned the extradition hearing and allowed Mr Urquhart bail.

The case will next call at Edinburgh Sheriff Court.