British embassy must clarify its position
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Burin Kantabutra (Letters, March 28) highlights what appears to be a case of appalling neglect regarding the late Gareth Davies. Neglect, and possibly worse, by his employers, who are accused of not forwarding his social welfare contributions, neglect by
All British passports contain a statement from the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs that “requests and requires those whom it may concern to afford the bearer such assistance and protection as may be necessary”. Clearly these are empty words if the Secretary of State’s own diplomatic representatives are accused of ignoring them. For the sake of Davies’ family, and all British citizens in Thailand, the British Embassy should issue a statement clarifying its role in this tragic affair, and explain exactly what assistance and protection they are legally obliged to provide to British citizens who find themselves, through no fault of their own, in distressing circumstances.
Robin Grant
Bangkok
