McCanns demand Portuguese police interview 25 key witnesses

Kate and Gerry McCann have demanded that Portuguese police interview 25 witnesses they believe hold the key to solving the mystery of their daughter's disappearance.

The couple's lawyer, Michael Caplan QC, has submitted the list of names to the Portuguese authorities along with a 'petition' for the defence team to be given access to the case file against them.

Mr Caplan is taking advantage of the rights that people are afforded as arguidos, or formal suspects, to demand information and action from the police.

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A friend close to the family confirmed that the witnesses the McCanns wish to be interviewed include employees at the Ocean Club resort where the family had been staying in Praia da Luz, including nannies who were working in the club's creche.

Nanny: Catriona Baker

Among those said to be on the list is Catriona Baker, the nanny assigned by holiday firm Mark Warner to look after Maddie.

News of the submissions by Mr Caplan came as Mr and Mrs McCann were formally told by British police liaison officers that the Portuguese police were 'reviewing' the case against them.

However, after talks with Leicestershire Police on Friday, Madeleine's parents have privately expressed their confidence that they will not now be charged.

They have even considered what role they could take in the police investigation if their arguido status is dropped.

The McCanns are loathe to lose any input and have considered becoming 'prosecutor's assistants'.