British grandfather escapes flogging in Saudi Arabia

A British grandfather who was threatened with flogging for breaking Saudi Arabia's strict anti-alcohol laws will be released within a week, British foreign secretary Philip Hammond has said.

Karl Andree (74) has served time in jail following his arrest in Jeddah in August last year after he was caught with homemade wine.

However, during a visit to Saudi Arabia, Mr Hammond confirmed that Mr Andree would be released and reunited with his family.

He said: “This is a good outcome and I’m grateful to minister Al-Jubeir and all other people who have been involved, especially His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, for ensuring that we now have a good outcome.”

PA