Billionaire Branson declines Singapore death penalty TV debate 

British billionaire Sir Richard Branson has turned down an invitation from Singapore’s government to take part in a live TV debate about the country’s death penalty and drugs approach. 

He was invited to take part in a discussion having previously said he was opposed to Singapore’s death penalty for crimes such as drug trafficking. 

In an open letter, Sir Richard said TV debates are “always at risk of prioritising personalities over issues – cannot do the complexity of the death penalty any service”.

He also called for the Singapore government to engage with local voices in “constructive, lasting dialogue involving multiple stakeholders, and a true commitment to transparency and evidence” to help it find a way to abolish the death penalty.