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US kidnap ruling `no problem'

suspects abroad has failed to ruffle the feathers of Bermuda's legal eagles.And the British Government also appeared unmoved at the prospect of Washington sending agents into its territory.

suspects abroad has failed to ruffle the feathers of Bermuda's legal eagles.

And the British Government also appeared unmoved at the prospect of Washington sending agents into its territory.

The United Kingdom's stance would reflect Bermuda's official line.

A Home Office spokeswoman told The Royal Gazette traditional Anglo-American co-operation was expected to continue.

"All I can say is that the extradition policy we have in place at the moment with the US is working effectively.

"We are satisfied that it will continue to work in that manner.'' She added: "The current co-operation between ourselves and the US is expected to continue.'' The US ruling, made last week, allows agents to seize people in other countries wanted for trial in America.

The decision stems from the kidnapping in Mexico of a doctor wanted in America for alleged involvement in the 1985 slaying of US drug agent Enrique Camarena.

Some Governments have denounced the ruling as a blatant flouting of extradition procedures.

Speaking from Washington where he is on business, Bermuda's Attorney General Mr. Walter Maddocks said: "It is really a matter for the British Government.'' Senior Crown Counsel Mr. Barrie Meade was equally brief. "The decision will not affect the laws of Bermuda,'' he said.

According to the current criminal code in Bermuda a US agent caught kidnapping would be expected to face prosecution like anyone else.