Statements of Support (2003-2013) / Bruce, Malcolm MP

“Mr Khodorkovsky had opportunities to leave Russia many times – chose not to do so – and I think has demonstrated his commitment to Russia through his charitable foundations, but unfortunately also for his political interests which differ from those of the current establishment. And it’s very difficult not to believe that the way the charges have been put against him and the way his court case has been delayed and treated and frustrated, that there is not a political motivation to punish him for daring to criticise, or to take him out of the political scene altogether. If Russia is to take its place as a democratic country, I think the Russian people have to ask: ‘Is that really the right way to treat somebody? And is Mr Khodorkovsky perhaps more of a friend of the Russian people rather than the enemy?”

Malcolm Bruce MP (Liberal Democrat), Chair of the International Development Select Committee, UK Parliament, December 4, 2009