Any question of discontinuing Mr Osman's prosecution would be a matter for the Hong Kong authorities.
As Lord Justice Mann remarked in his judgement on the fourth habeas corpus application, Mr Osman's resistance to extradition has lasted longer than any other has ever done. The Court hoped, as had Lord Justice Parker following the third application, that the question of return could now be determined without delay. We share the concern about the length of time taken to bring the case to conclusion. The Secretary of State cannot surrender a fugitive while appeal proceedings are pending. He will reach a final decision as soon as he is able to do so.
Yours Sincerely,
Sarah Martyn
P.P.
JOHN PATTEN
(Approved by the Minister and sugner in his absence).
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