“The only reason the C.I.A. would destroy these tapes is if they prove what we have always suspected – that ‘severe interrogation techniques’ are, in fact, torture. I expect a full investigation of these reports, and if they are true, a full accounting of what happened, when and why. Whoever authorized the destruction of this critical evidence must answer to Congress and the American people,” said Rep. Markey.

“This administration’s insistence that it is above the rule of law has undermined our standing in the world. We cannot let President Bush continue to sully our nation's human rights record.”