Family of British expert demands all involved "reflect long and hard"

LONDON (AFP) Jul 19, 2003
The family of British weapons expert David Kelly on Saturday urged all those involved in events leading to his death to "reflect long and hard" on their role in making his life "intolerable."

The comments, made in a statement issued through police, could be interpreted as a call for either Prime Minister Tony Blair or members of his staff to resign over Kelly's apparent suicide.

"Events over recent weeks had made David's life intolerable and all of those involved should reflect long and hard on this fact," the family statement said.

It added: "It is hard to comprehend the enormity of this tragedy. We appeal now to everyone to afford us privacy to grieve in peace and come to terms with our loss."

The statement came hours after police confirmed Kelly had bled to death after apparently slashing his own wrist and taking painkillers.

WAR.WIRE