HL Deb 12 December 1995 vol 567 cc101-2WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have received new information concerning the October-November Iraqi invasion scare.

Baroness Chalker of Wallasey:

Following his defection in August 1995, Hussein Kamil al-Majid told the press that Saddam Hussein ordered his troops in October 1994, as they were massing near the Kuwaiti border, to loot Kuwait. This firmly suggests that Iraq intended to move forces across the border, and underscores the continuing threat that they pose to regional stability.

Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What were the numbers involved in the build-up in early October 1994 of Iraqi forces close to the border with Kuwait and how were they armed.

Baroness Chalker of Wallasey:

We estimate that Iraq deployed 20,000 troops from the republican guard including armoured, mechanised and infantry divisions, and up to 300 tanks. UK forces played a prompt and effective role with allied forces in deterring this aggressive act, and securing an early Iraqi withdrawal.

Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether at the time of the build-up of Iraqi forces on the Kuwaiti border in October 1994 there was also a build-up of expellees from Kuwait to Iraq encamped in the area; what were the numbers and whether they were armed.

Baroness Chalker of Wallasey:

The deployment of Iraqi troops close to the border with Kuwait coincided with the arrival of about 2,000 to 3,000 people, including Lebanese, Palestinians and stateless. Those involved appeared to have come from various parts of Iraq, not Kuwait. We have seen nothing to suggest that the group was armed.