The family of a British couple detained in Iran has called for an urgent meeting with the Foreign Secretary after the pair were unexpectedly brought before a court in Tehran. Lindsay and Craig Foreman, from East Sussex, were arrested in January during a global motorcycle tour and later charged with espionage — allegations they firmly deny.
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Their son, Joe Bennett, has expressed grave concerns about the fairness of proceedings, stating that his parents were represented by a state-appointed lawyer they had only just met. He argued that such circumstances could not be considered a fair trial. The family said they had no prior warning of the hearing, which has added to their fears regarding the couple’s wellbeing and the transparency of the process.
Through their adviser, Radd Seiger, the family have formally requested a meeting with David Lammy, urging that every effort be made to secure Lindsay and Craig’s release and safe return to the UK. Mr Bennett said the lack of information surrounding his father’s condition was especially worrying, noting that Craig has been held in Evin Prison without access to funds for more than three weeks. In Iran’s prison system, detainees rely on money transferred to their accounts in order to buy food, clean water, and hygiene products.
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The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has confirmed it is aware of the case and continues to engage with Iranian authorities. Officials have warned all British and dual British-Iranian nationals against travelling to Iran due to what it describes as a significant risk of arrest, questioning, or detention. The family say they remain deeply concerned, insisting that transparency and urgent diplomatic action are vital if Lindsay and Craig are to be safely returned home.
