§ 5. Mr. van Straubenzeeasked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make a statement on United Kingdom current relations with Iraq.
§ Mr. HurdWe wish to build a sound and fruitful relationship with Iraq based on mutual understanding and co-operation. We believe that the Iraqi Government also are looking for improvement in relations. We hope that any outstanding problems will be resolved.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeI welcome that reply, and does my hon. Friend feel encouraged, as many do, by the clemency shown to my constituent Mr. Ned Sparkes, who has now been released? Does that encourage my hon. Friend to hope that further clemency will be shown in respect of Mr. Smith, who is still, as I understand it, imprisoned in Iraq?
§ Mr. HurdThat is right. The two cases are not identical, but we hope that the Iraqi Government will feel ab1e to show clemency in the case of Mr. Smith so that he can be restored to his family.
§ Mr. NewensBearing in mind the appalling treatment meted out by the Iraqi Government to their opponents over recent years., will the Minister find a way to indicate xo them that we will take a dim view of any action taken in this country by elements who support that Government against their opponents? The hon. Gentleman will be aware that there are good reasons for asking the question.
§ Mr. HurdYes, Sir. It is a relevant question. We have trade our views clear to the Iraqi authorities on a number of occasions.
§ Mr. Temple-MorrisIs my hon. Friend aware of the considerable concern in Iraq and other parts of the Arab 250 world about possible Western and United Kingdom Government policy towards Iran after the release of the American and British hostages? If those hostages are released, will the Government assist in the re-arming and re-equipping of Iran?
§ Mr. HurdMy hon. Friend will agree that that is a hypothetical question that will fall to be considered if, as we hope, the American hostages are released. There are no signs, I fear, that that release is imminent.