HC Deb 11 December 2002 vol 396 cc334-5W
16. Dr. Julian Lewis

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment she has made of the humanitarian implications of a conflict with Iraq. [84702]

Clare Short

My Department is engaged in regular contingency planning for a variety of potential humanitarian emergencies around the world. In the case of Iraq, we are considering a wide range of contingencies, which take into account the present humanitarian situation in the country. No decision has been taken to launch military action against Iraq and military action is not inevitable.

25. Angela Watkinson

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what discussions her Department has had with the UN regarding humanitarian contingency planning for a potential war in Iraq. [84711]

Clare Short

My Department has regular discussions with the UN on general contingency preparedness planning for a variety of eventualities and in a number of countries where it works. In the case of Iraq, the UN is preparing for all eventualities. No decision has been taken to launch military action against Iraq and military action is not inevitable.

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