I appreciate your concerns on this issue. This is a very tragic case and I understand the strength of feeling surrounding Madeleine's disappearance.
Madeleine disappeared in Portugal, and the Portuguese police retain the lead responsibility in the case. However, I understand that law enforcement agencies here have throughout continued on follow up leads and pass information to the Portuguese authorities as appropriate. I share the Government's view that it is right that we assist the Portuguese authorities and I think that it is understandable that there is considerable public support for a Metropolitan Police investigation.
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