NEW DELHI, DECEMBER 8: Dropping its earlier stand that it would not interfere with the due process of the law, Britain has made a formal request to India for the release of the Purulia arms drop main accused Peter Bleach with Foreign Secretary Robin Cook writing to his Indian counterpart Jaswant Singh last week."Robin Cook sent a formal request on December 4 and New Delhi has told us they are studying the case", Sir Rob Young, the British High Commissioner here told newsmen.Young said Cook's formal request came after concern had been conveyed by Home Secretary Jack Straw to his Indian counterpart L K Advani that London wanted Bleach to be treated in a "non-discriminatory manner"."We have asked for the release of Bleach as all those convicted with him on the same grounds have been released", Young said. Young said there could be a delay in the visit of Prime Minister Tony Blair to India next year, but added it was not linked to Bleach's case, but due to elections."He (Bleach) should be treated like the Russians consistent with Indian and international law,'' the British High Commissioner said adding that the forthcoming visit of the British Defence Secretary Geoffrey Hoon was in no way linked to seeking Bleach's release and transfer to England.
