HL Deb 11 March 1999 vol 598 cc352-3

3.26 p.m.

Lord Wallace of Saltaire asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether American intelligence agencies have used UNSCOM teams in Iraq as cover for national intelligence activities.

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

My Lords, this is a matter for the United States. But the United States Government have stated publicly and repeatedly that all activities by US nationals assigned to UNSCOM, and all information exchanges between the US and UNSCOM, have been strictly in pursuit of UNSCOM's mandate to dismantle Iraq's weapons of mass destruction capability.

Lord Wallace of Saltaire

My Lords, I thank the Minister for that, I suppose, unavoidable Answer. Is she aware that in the extremely detailed and carefully researched report in the Washington Post of 2nd March it is stated that the British Government asked the American Administration in March 1997 to explain a number of irregular signals activity incidents between UNSCOM and various other outside sources? Does she accept that the report deepens the unhappiness many of us feel about United States exploitation of the UN through UNSCOM and the implications for the acceptability of the UN as an inspecting body? Does she accept that this may have damaged the reputation of the UN and that steps may be needed to restore that reputation?

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

My Lords, the allegations published in the Washington Post on 2nd March were, of course, later picked up in the British press. They are part of what appears to be a prolonged campaign against UNSCOM and its strongest supporters, including the United States and the United Kingdom. There is little I can add except to say that the allegations have been completely rejected by the United States Government.

Lord Moynihan

My Lords, no doubt the Minister has been equally assiduous in her homework. What is her reaction to suggestions that the recent espionage allegations were a contributory factor in Richard Butler's decision to step down from UNSCOM when his two-year term ends in June?

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

My Lords, I do not believe that that is borne out by what Mr. Butler has said. In dealing with questions of this nature we get into a little difficulty. I hope the noble Lord will accept from me that it is the policy of this Government, as it was of his own party when in government—it is a longstanding policy—not to comment on matters which have a bearing on intelligence.

Lord Mishcon

My Lords, is the Minister aware that she is outstandingly good?

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