HC Deb 21 June 2002 vol 387 cc637-8W
Miss McIntosh

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on relations with Iraq. [63076]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

We have no diplomatic relations with Iraq. We have limited official-level contacts. We use them to urge Iraq to comply with all relevant Security Council resolutions, including on weapons inspections, so allowing Iraq's reintegration into the international community.

Mr. Jenkins

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what happens to the funds raised by the sales of impounded Iraqi oil form ships stopped by coalition forces; and how such funds have been used over the last five years. [63173]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

Under UN Security resolution 778 (1992), the proceeds, less expenses, of the sale of seized illegal Iraqi oil are paid into the UN escrow account which funds the UN "Oil for Food" humanitarian programme.

Mr. Jenkins

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many ships were stopped by coalition forces with Iraqi oil on board in contravention of UN sanctions in each of the last five years. [63172]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

The number of ships diverted by the Maritime Interception Force (MIF) is:

  • 1997—26;
  • 1998—40;
  • 1999—19;
  • 2000—82; and
  • 2001—115.

The figure for 2002, up until 18 June, is 89.