Regrettably, hostage release scenarios are rarely as clear cut as Prince's Gate, however much we would like them to be.
Read here for a more cogent argument than I can give:
BBC NEWS | UK | Hostages and limits on negotiation
That said, I'm sure the strength of character of a Govt and its leader will make a huge difference to the eventual outcome of any situation.
In expressing heartfelt sorrow for the Dyer family, may I remind Prune readers there remain 5 (or maybe less) British hostages somewhere in or around Baghdad.
They've only been held for 2 years.
I wonder what Maggie would have done?