Published 21:25 IST, November 12th 2019
Hillary Clinton calls British government 'inexplicable and shameful'
Hillary Clinton on called the UK govt failure to publish the parliamentary report on possible Russian interference in UK politics 'inexplicable and shameful'
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The former US presidential candidate Hillary Clinton on November 12 called the British government's failure to publish the parliamentary report on possible Russian interference in British politics “inexplicable and shameful”. According to reports, the document by parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) has been cleared by the security services. However, the report has not been given publication approval by the UK Prime Minister Borish Johnson's Downing Street office. The British administration has previously also rejected any claims that it has suppressed the report to avoid a scandal ahead of December elections.
Clinton in an interview said, "Every person who votes in this country deserves to see that report before your election happens. I find it inexplicable that your government will not release a government report about Russian influence. Inexplicable and shameful”.
The dossier requires clearance from the PM's office
The controversial document is 50 pages and has received clearance from the security services but needs to be cleared from Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s office located in Downing Street. Therefore, will not be published before December 12. Michael Gove, who is the senior minister in the cabinet said that the document compiled by the Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee is undertaking the appropriate procedures. However, he failed to disclose when the document will be published. The upcoming general elections could help in deciding whether or not Brexit will happen. The decision is important for the Boris Johnson government, which is in the minority. Boris Johnson will have to give up his position if the party does not receive majority votes.
Suspicion and doubt
On the other hand, the main Opposition party has agreed to let the Britons vote again on the matter of Brexit and decide whether Britain will exit European Union or not but on a condition to form its government for the first time since 2010. Dominic Grieve, who is the intelligence and security committee chairman also reflected on the delay in the publishing of the dossier. The delay in the release of the documents has clouded the minds of lawmakers with suspicion and doubt. Donald Anderson, who is a member of the Upper House of Lords also said that it has invited suspicion on the government and its motives.
(With PTI inputs)
14:45 IST, November 12th 2019