Landmark ruling over Iraqi’s death in custody

THE family of an Iraqi civilian allegedly unlawfully killed by British troops while in custody won a “historic” human rights ruling yesterday which opens the way for an independent investigation into his death.

In a dramatic blow to Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon, who had opposed a fresh investigation, two senior High Court judges ruled in favour of the family of hotel worker Baha Mousa, 26, who was allegedly beaten to death.

Mr Hoon's lawyers contended an investigation could not be held under the provisions of the European Convention on Human Rights as it did not apply to British troops in south east Iraq.