British Private Security Companies "not involved" in Libya

When I met my MP last week, he asked me to research the question of whether British private security companies were involved in supplying mercenaries to Gaddafi.

There are 9 British companies who supply private security services.

Aegis Defence Services ArmorGroup International London Branch of G4S plc Blue Hackle Control Risks Group Edinburgh Risk Erinys International Dubai (Joint South African-British company) Hart Security International Intelligence Limited Tecnodef (Sandline International London Ceased operations on April 16, 2004)

I was put through to the British Association of Private Security Companies, and spoke to their CEO, Andy Bearpark. He told me there was "zero" chance that British companies were involved in Libya. I have no reason to disbelieve him.

In our conversation, interestingly, he said that "mercenary" activity is in fact illegal. South Africa has substantial legislation to forbid it, but UK law is vastly outdated.

Lobbying MP to block Libya State TV

I am off to lobby my MP (John Penrose, Weston-super-Mare) this afternoon on closing down Libya State TV. Regular readers may have noticed this is my current obsession. I make no excuses for this. It will be hugely effective in raising the morale of the revolutionaries, lowering the morale of Gaddafi's supporters, and may even affect G's command and control.

Please join me by writing, phoning and lobbying, your MP, and by writing to Nilesat directly as per this post:

Ease the way for Gaddafi to go into exile

Great news that Gaddafi is considering exile.

This raises contradictory emotions. On the one hand, we want Gaddafi out of Libya, because his regime will undoubtedly collapse when he goes, since it is structured so closely around his personality.

On this basis, the UN and the Allies should be making clear to Gaddafi that we will do everything to facilitate his exile, providing jets, visas, hotels and any other travel arrangements that he requires.  Threats of legal action may motivate him to fight to the death.

On the other hand, it is an offence against natural justice that he should retire in comfort when he has committed so many crimes.  People who have lost friends and relatives to the regime will seek justice.

This contradiction can be resolved in this way:  Cameron &c can say to Gaddafi, "Politically we will help you to go into exile. We will not prosecute you, but we have no control over the legal process. That is up to the lawyers. You will have to engage a top lawyer to defend yourself."