§ 15. Ian Lucas (Wrexham) (Lab)What recent discussions he has had with representatives of the United Nations concerning its future role in Iraq. [150701]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Bill Rammell)We are in regular discussion with representatives of the United Nations, at ministerial and official level, concerning its future involvement in the reconstruction of Iraq. On 19 January, there was a meeting between the Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the UN, and members of the Iraqi governing council, at which Sir Jeremy Greenstock, the UK special representative to Iraq, was present. We continue to support the UN having a vital role in the reconstruction of Iraq.
§ Ian LucasI thank the Minister for his reply, but does he agree that to achieve the sort of legitimacy that will create the environment for free and fair elections, the United Nations must have a leading role within Iraq? Only then can elections take place and the Iraqi people have some confidence in the governing structures.
§ Mr. RammellI certainly agree with my hon. Friend that the involvement of the United Nations will increase confidence among the Iraqi people. He will be aware of the meeting on 19 January, during, which there was a request to the UN for assistance in clarifying the 160 political process leading to the transition to the Iraqi authority on 1 July. As of this morning, the Secretary-General announced that he is sending a team of experts in electoral processes to Iraq to provide an independent assessment of the best means of developing a representative transitional process, which is something that we certainly welcome.
§ Ms Julia Drown (South Swindon) (Lab)Would the United Nations be able to help with the current difficulties that are being raised in Iraq over the possible involvement of sharia law there? Islam does not need to conflict with women's rights, but there are real concerns that sharia law might be introduced. Could the United Nations help to ensure that women's rights will be protected in any future administration arrangement in Iraq?
§ Mr. RammellI fully understand my hon. Friend's concern, but there is undoubtedly a difficult balance to be struck between upholding our view of what is right and respecting the fact that the Iraqi people must arrive at a settlement that is appropriate and in their interest. She will be aware that different kinds of sharia law exist throughout the world. We will continue to maintain our strong concerns about the most extreme interpretation of sharia law, especially with regard to the interests of women.