Iran Votes To Expel British Ambassador

Iran's Parliament has voted to expel British Ambassador Dominick John Chilcott after the UK cut off banking ties with the country over concerns that its nuclear programme may have military dimensions.

In response, a foreign office spokesman said that the decision is 'regrettable'

"This unwarranted move will do nothing to help the regime address their growing isolation or international concerns about their nuclear programme and human rights record. If the Iranian Government acts on this, we will respond robustly in consultation with our international partners," said the spokesman.

Last week, the UK has imposed tough new financial restrictions against Iran and has cut off all financial ties with Iranian banks, said a statement from the Foreign Office.

This followed the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) latest report on Iran, which highlights fresh concerns about the possible military dimensions of Iran’s nuclear programme. It is the first time that the UK has used these powers to cut an entire country’s banking sector off from its financial sector.

Foreign Secretary William Hague said:

“The IAEA's report last week provided further credible and detailed evidence about the possible military dimensions of the Iranian nuclear programme. Today we have responded resolutely by introducing a set of new sanctions that prohibit all business with Iranian banks.

“We have consistently made clear that until Iran engages meaningfully, it will find itself under increasing pressure from the international community.  The swift and decisive action today coordinated with key international partners is a strong signal of determination to intensify this pressure.”

From 15:00 Monday 21 November 2011, all UK credit and financial institutions were required to cease business relationships and transactions with all Iranian banks, including the Central Bank of Iran, and their branches and subsidiaries.

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