HC Deb 24 March 2003 vol 402 cc71-2W
Mr. Cousins

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether the Government have agreed protocols for assistance by UK forces of UN agencies in the co-ordination of new relief efforts in the Gulf. [103946]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

During the period of military conflict it is unlikely that conditions will allow UN agencies to operate. We hope that as soon as the security environment permits UN agencies will commence work in Iraq.

Our forces are experienced in operating with UN agencies and will seek to establish close and effective contact with any UN agencies they may be in contact with.

Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the steps taken to authenticate the documentation passed to the UN weapons inspectors referred to by Dr. M. El Baradei at the UN Security Council on 7 March 2003, claiming that Iraq had attempted to buy uranium from Niger and elsewhere. [103807]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

We understand that the IAEA acquired documents—some of which were forgeries. I am told these were not from UK sources. We can remain confident the statement in the Government's Dossier on Iraqi WMD that Iraq sought the supply of significant uranium from Africa.

Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the impact of Shia fighters from Iran invading Iraq on the military situation on the border between Iraq and Iran. [104608]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

We continually assess all aspects of the military situation in Iraq. In this context, we welcome Iranian Government assurances that, in accordance with Iran's neutrality, it is not their intention that their troops will enter Iraq. We will continue to monitor the situation and keep in contact with the Iranians.

Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the Government of Iran on the situation in Iraq. [104609]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

We maintain regular contact with the Iranian authorities over the situation in Iraq, both at ministerial level and through our respective embassies. My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary most recently discussed the situation with the Iranian Foreign Minister, Dr. Khamal Kharrazi, by telephone on 20 March.