Prime Minister John Key has given assurances that New Zealand is keeping a close eye on what is happening with a New Zealander imprisoned in Myanmar.
New Zealander being led into a court in Yangon, Myanmar. Photo: SUPPLIED
Philip Blackwood, along with two Burmese co-workers, was sentenced to two-and-a-half years of jail with hard labour for using an image of Buddha to promote a cheap drinks night at the bar he managed.
His father has claimed the New Zealand Government is refusing to advocate on his behalf.
Nearly 7000 prisoners were granted a presidential pardon last week but Mr Blackwood missed out.
Mr Key said the Government was providing whatever support it could but was proceeding carefully, so as not to make the situation worse.