Minister in UK Foreign Office to take up Greens matter with T&T

The Greens with MP Jeremy Browne

A minister in the British Foreign Office is planning to press for compensation for a couple who survived a machete attack at their holiday home in Tobago. Peter and Murium Green suffered serious injuries in the vicious attack at their home.

Clint Alexis, 25, of Argyle, Tobago, has been charged with attempted murder.

Jeremy Browne told the BBC the attack was "horrific" adding that the couple are afraid to return to the island to testify in the trial. They say they have received death threats.

"Eighteen months have now passed, but the circumstances for the Greens are still very difficult and they have not been awarded any compensation for their injuries from the government of Trinidad and Tobago," Browne told the BBC.

"They have been unable to sell their holiday home and they also fear retribution from their attackers if they are forced to return to the island to give evidence in the criminal trial. Peter and Murium have gone through a very traumatic ordeal which is being compounded by these issues," he added.

"The attack has elicited national attention in Britain and will seriously concern the Trinidad and Tobago government as well as their tourist industry.

"It would be in the interests of the Trinidad and Tobago government to help bring some peace to Peter and Murium after everything they have had to endure."

Browne plans to visit Trinidad and Tobago in his capacity as a Foreign Office minister where he hopes to meet his local counterpart.

The BBC said the authorities in Trinidad and Tobago have promised to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the couple if they return as witnesses in the trial, citing a government spokesperson.