asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will make representations to the Government of the United States regarding the possible use of shackling or leg irons by the United States authorities on British nationals extradited to the United States who have not been convicted of any crime.[HL6823]

Rule 33 of the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, adopted by the United Nations in 1955, although not legally binding, states that instruments of restraint, such as shackles and leg irons, shall not be applied as a punishment. However, the standard minimum rules do recognise that restraints may and will be used in certain circumstances, including precaution against escape during transfer. The Government will therefore not make representations on this issue but will continue to monitor closely the welfare of all British detainees in the USA.