§ Llew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many representations the Government have received since May 2003 from Amnesty International in respect of the shooting of or other injuries to Iraqi civilians. [173343]
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§ Mr. IngramI am aware of four reports from Amnesty International since May 2003 which refer to the shooting of or other injuries to Iraqi civilians. These are
Preliminary findings by Amnesty International alleging abuses at the hands of United Kingdom military personnel in Iraq" dated 29 May 2003;Memorandum on concerns relating to law and order" dated 23 July 2003;One Year on the human rights situation remains dire" dated 18 March 2004; andKillings of civilians in Basra and al-Amara" dated 11 May 2004.Additionally, Amnesty wrote to the Prime Minister on 14 May 2004 with allegations concerning a further two incidents not covered by previous reports.
We receive a number of communications from Amnesty International regarding Iraq, including letters from different officers and officials, and letters received as a result of Amnesty campaigns and reports.
In addition, with the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, I met with officials of Amnesty International on 14 June.
I will be providing a comprehensive response to the key issues raised by Amnesty International involving UK armed forces, as soon as the allegations have been fully researched. A copy will be placed in the Library of the House.