§ 11.6 a.m.
§ Mr. W. Yates(by Private Notice) asked the Lord Privy Seal, following the revolution in Iraq, what steps have Her Majesty's Government taken to protect British Government interests and British lives and property in Iraq.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Peter Thomas)The present situation in Baghdad is confused. We are in constant touch with our Ambassador in Baghdad, who has not reported any danger to British lives or property. According to local radio reports, the revolutionary régime has announced that foreigners are in no danger. In view of the confusion of the situation, I prefer not to comment further at this stage.
§ Mr. YatesIn view of this situation, will the Minister agree to keep the House informed and to consider making another statement on Monday, bearing in mind that Her Majesty's Government have a substantial interest in the Iraqi Oil Petroleum Company in Northern Iraq, and has he any statement to make about the oil company's position in Mosul?
§ Mr. ThomasWe have received no reports of any trouble in the oilfields areas. I will certainly consider the suggestion made by my hon. Friend at the beginning of his supplementary question.