Braverman appoints Ukraine evidence advisor
FAREHAM MP and Attorney General Suella Braverman has confirmed the next move in the Government’s commitment to gather Ukraine evidence of Russian war crimes in Ukraine and hold President Putin to account as the invasion nears its sixth full week; appointing Sir Howard Morrison QC KCMG as an independent adviser to the Ukrainian Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova.
It has been confirmed that Sir Howard will provide independent and expert legal advice to the Ukrainian Prosecutor General in relation to the investigation and prosecution of war crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine; with work set to start immediately on this.
The experience lawyer has previously had an extensive judicial career in the UK and internationally including serving as a judge at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and at the International Criminal Court for over twelve years. In this time Sir Howard served as a judge in a number of trials involving the most serious crimes of international concern, such as the case of Radovan Karadzic.
The appointment is part of the Attorney General’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s journey to justice against Russia. Earlier this month, the Attorney signed a joint statement of support with Ukraine’s Prosecutor General which reiterated the UK’s commitment to helping with the gathering of evidence of crimes which could include crimes against humanity and war crimes. The Attorney and Prosecutor General are understood to be in regular contact and hope to meet in person during the next few weeks.
Commenting on the announcement on the Government website, the Attorney General said: “It has been a privilege to work with Ukraine’s Prosecutor General, Iryna Venediktova, my admiration for her courage and determination grows with every meeting.
“The UK is committed to showing that the atrocities we see being committed day after day in Ukraine will not be forgotten and that those giving or following illegal orders will be tracked down and held to account. “I am pleased to offer Sir Howard’s expert help and I will continue to do all I can as Attorney General to support Ukraine’s journey to justice against Russia.
Commenting on the announcement, the Ukrainian Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova said: “We are honoured to have Sir Howard Morrison’s help and I am grateful to the Attorney General for offering his assistance. Sir Howard’s experience and knowledge of international criminal law speaks louder than words and his help will be taken up immediately on a number of issues.”
PICTURED BY ICC: Sir Howard Morrison presides over hearing at the International Criminal Court in 2018.
