Snowden Says He Is Willing To Answer Questions From European Parliament, Which Also Wants Him To Go There In Person

from the would-that-be-wise? dept

European governments have shown themselves to be extremely reluctant to investigate the NSA and GCHQ surveillance of their populations -- probably because they knew about it and received information as a result. The European Parliament, by contrast, has been active here through its Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) committee, which is holding an "inquiry on electronic mass surveillance of EU citizens."

One person uniquely well placed to help any such investigation is, of course, Edward Snowden, and it appears he has now agreed to give evidence: NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden has confirmed in writing that he is prepared to answer questions from the European Parliament's inquiry into the revelations of mass surveillance by intelligence services. He will at least respond in writing, possibly also via a recorded video message. That information is posted on The Greens | European Free Alliance site, which goes on to say: "It is clear that Edward Snowden will only be able to give us comprehensive information if he can be guaranteed a safe stay in Europe for a later in-depth testimony. Next week, the EP's civil liberties committee will decide if the European Parliament will call on EU governments to grant such protection. The Greens have pushed for this and continue to urge all political groups to support the move." Given that the Bolivian President's jet was re-routed in Europe purely on suspicions that Snowden could be on board -- presumably at the behest of the US -- promises of "protection" won't be worth much. In any case, they're unlikely to be given for the same reasons European governments don't want to investigate this matter.

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Filed Under: edward snowden, eu parliament, gchq, nsa, privacy, whistleblower