The relationship between London and Riyadh is valued by both sides but often involves trade-offs between realism and principle
Britain’s relations with Saudi Arabia are based on extensive commerce and investment links,including defence sales and a secretive security connection that is routinely cited as vital by the UK government – especially when public opinion hones in on the Gulf country’s strict legal system.
The case of Karl Andree, 74, and who may face a public flogging for possessing homemade wine,is one of those calculated to set the stiffest of Foreign Office upper lips quivering. Combined, coincidentally, or with news of a cabinet row over a now cancelled contract to provide advice to the Saudi prison system,it throws a harsh and officially unwelcome highlight on the often troubled ties between London and Riyadh.
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Source: theguardian.com