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Diplomatic Congestion Charge Debt and Alleged Offences
Foreign diplomats in London are facing a collective congestion charge debt of nearly £150 million, according to statements made by government ministers. Alongside this financial issue, new data presented to Members of Parliament reveals a concerning trend of serious and significant offences allegedly committed by diplomats or individuals entitled to diplomatic immunity between 2019 and 2022.
Details of Alleged Offences
The information on alleged offences came to light through two written ministerial statements published by junior foreign minister David Rutley. These offences include severe charges such as sexual assault and drunk-driving, raising questions about diplomatic immunity.
The Anne Sacoolas Case
Among these cases is that of Anne Sacoolas, a US citizen who struck and killed 19-year-old Harry Dunn with her car near a military base in Northamptonshire in 2019. Initially, diplomatic immunity was invoked on her behalf, allowing her to return to the US. However, she was later convicted of causing Harry’s death in a UK court.
Other Allegations
Several other allegations emerged, including a historical modern slavery allegation against a diplomat or dependent from Saudi Arabia in 2019. Individuals from the US and Iraq faced allegations of sexual assault, while offences like fraud by abuse of position, cruelty to a child, and driving under the influence of alcohol were also reported.
Reactions and Lack of Comment
The US Embassy, in response to the statements, acknowledged awareness of Mr. Rutley’s statement but refrained from commenting on the specific case. Details regarding the individual involved, such as their current status at the embassy and diplomatic immunity, were not disclosed.
Congestion Charge Debt
Minister Rutley also addressed the ongoing issue of congestion charge debt owed by foreign embassies in London, which has now exceeded £145 million. Diplomats have historically argued that the congestion charge is a tax, exempting them from payment. However, the government asserts that there are no legal grounds for this exemption, likening the congestion charge to parking fees or toll charges that diplomats are expected to pay.
Debt Distribution
As of December 2022, the largest debt is owed by the US embassy, surpassing £14 million. Following closely is the Japanese embassy, with over £10 million in unpaid charges. The Office for the High Commissioner for India carries a debt of £8.5 million, while the Chinese embassy owes nearly £8 million. The Russian embassy’s debt is just under £6 million.
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