British envoy denies walkout at Senate hearing

I am writing in reaction to the article titled “Lack of Senate quorum results in ‘walkout’ by envoys” (News, Inquirer, 6/7/13).

My colleague and I were at the Senate last June 6 to observe the proceedings as the ratification of the UK-Philippines Extradition Treaty was scheduled that day. However, I would like to make it clear that there was no “walkout,” and the reason we left early was simply because we had other appointments to attend to, namely representing the ambassador at the Italian and Swedish National Day celebrations. No

offense was intended to the members of the Senate to whom we are most grateful for their help on this matter.

—STEPH LYSAGHT,

first secretary and head of the

political and economic team,

British Embassy Manila