(Washington, DC)— Congresswoman Diane E. Watson (CA-33rd) will accompany a congressional delegation to the Guantanamo Bay detention camp on August 1, 2005. 

“The purpose of our visit,” said Congresswoman Watson, “will be to inspect the detention facilities and ask the hard questions about prisoner treatment and allegations of abuse.  Persistent reports by human rights groups of the use of excessive force and techniques that violate the Uniform Code of Military Justice are very disturbing and, if true, will seriously undermine our nation’s efforts to prosecute the war on terrorism.”

The congressional delegation will be led by Congressman Tom Davis (VA).  Also participating in the delegation are Jon Porter (NV), Jim Moran (VA), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D.C.).