Local MEP raises plight of South West hostages with EU Foreign Minister

3.22.55pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 30th Mar 2007

Graham Watson, the Lib Dem MEP for the South West and Gibraltar has this week in a debate in the European Parliament condemned the seizure by Iran of the fifteen sailors and marines from the frigate HMS Cornwall.

In the debate Mr Watson called on EU Foreign Minister Javier Solana to use all of the European Union's efforts to release the sailors and marines who are being held in Iran.

Speaking today during a visit to the Eden Project in Cornwall, Graham said:

"HMS Cornwall is based in Devonport, in my constituency in the South West of England. Many of the people involved are my constituents. I have spoken today to many people who are desperately concerned for the captives. I am very keen to see them released as soon as possible. My thoughts are with their families and friends at this difficult time."

"I welcome the UN resolution which expresses the grave concerns of the Members of the Security Council of the capture and the continued detention of the naval personnel. I hope this might be a step towards their release."