A British woman accused of smuggling heroin in Laos will not face the death penalty if convicted because the country’s law bans executing pregnant prisoners.

THE Irish-based mother of a pregnant woman facing a possible death sentence for drug smuggling last night begged for her release.

The Laotian government today insisted the trial of a pregnant British woman who faces possible death by firing squad for allegedly smuggling heroin into the country will be conducted fairly.

Officials and legal campaigners are in Laos to try to help a pregnant British woman, whose family live in Ireland.