§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will ensure in Iraq that British forces searching private or religious premises are always accompanied by an interpreter. [HL3758]
§ Lord BachThe policy of United Kingdom forces in Iraq is. as far as possible, always to include interpreters on searches where locals were involved. The vast majority of interpreters are locally employed civilians, often accompanied by colloquial speakers. In rare circumstances—such as emergencies—there may be instances where an interpreter is not present, but these are not the normal practice.