TV documentary sparks calls for probe into CIA renditions

Jan 31, 2008, 15:17 GMT

Copenhagen - Denmark would ask US authorities for information if the CIA violated Danish airspace or used an airport in Greenland for renditions of alleged terrorist suspects, Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen said Thursday.

'The government views the information that has been put on the table seriously,' Rasmussen said, adding he opposed an independent probe until the government had reviewed the allegations.

The allegations were presented in a documentary, The CIA's Danish Connection, that was screened by public broadcaster DR on Wednesday evening.

The premier, who had not seen the documentary, said Denmark had 'clearly stated' to Washington that it was 'unacceptable' if international conventions were violated.

Members of the main opposition parties called for an independent review after the documentary alleged that the CIA used an airport in Greenland to refuel planes used for renditions of alleged terrorist suspects.

The leader of the New Alliance party that is part of the minority- government's parliamentary backing said he wanted to wait for the outcome of the government's probe.

The planes that landed at Narsarsuaq airport were operated by private companies that were fronts for the CIA, the documentary said.

Among alleged destinations were Egypt, Jordan, Romania and Afghanistan, the documentary said.

Among politicians who called for an independent probe were Juliane Henning, a member of parliament from Greenland. Denmark handles foreign policy for self-ruling Greenland.

Foreign Minister Per Stig Moller told DR that there was some 'evidence I have not seen before,' adding that he would discuss the matter with the US, saying Denmark's or Greenland's airspace should not be violated.

In a joint statement, the foreign minister, justice minister and transport minister said the Danish government 'did not lightly view allegations of illegal prison transports' but had presented 'all information' that Danish authorities had about alleged renditions.

The CIA's controversial rendition programme has been criticized by among others the Council of Europe.