§ Mrs. LiddellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many reservists are in Iraq; and what plans he has to change this number. [143733]
§ Mr. IngramAs at 11 December 2003, there were 1,235 reservists serving in Iraq. As the Secretary of State for Defence announced on 27 November 2003,Official Report, columns 32–33WS, we intend shortly to conduct a roulement of forces in Iraq. At the end of the roulement the number of reservists in Iraq will remain broadly similar. We continue to keep our forces levels in theatre under review in the light of the operational situation.
§ Harry CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many hazardous sites the Coalition estimates there are in Iraq; how many of these relate to cluster bombs; what steps are being taken to make them safe: and if he will make a statement. [141183]
§ Mr. IngramI refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave on 17 November 2003,Official Report, column 504W to the hon. Member for Moray (Angus Robertson).
§ Adam PriceTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the circumstances were surrounding(a) the death of Radi Nu'ma in British custody in May, (b) the death of Baha Musa in British custody in September and (c) the fatal shooting of Ali Salim in May, in Iraq. [141677]
§ Mr. IngramThe Special Investigations Branch is currently investigating the deaths of Radu Nu'ma. Baha Musa and Ah Salim (also known as Radhi Nama, Baha Nasheem Mohamed and Ali Salaam). It would, therefore, be inappropriate for me to comment.
§ Adam PriceTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) whether individuals have been charged in connection with Special Investigation Branch investigations into Iraqi civilian casualties allegedly involving British forces; [141689]
(2) what action has been taken as a result of the Special Investigation Branch investigations into Iraqi civilian casualties allegedly involving British forces. [141676]
§ Mr. IngramThe Special Investigations Branch has completed two investigations into Iraqi civilian fatalities. The first found there was no case to answer. In the second the SIB has sent a report to the unit concerned but it would be inappropriate for me to comment further as it might be prejudicial should further action be taken. The other investigations have not yet been completed and I am, therefore, unable to comment.
§ Mrs. LiddellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence which Scottish regiments are in Iraq. [143726]
842W
§ Mr. IngramThe only Scottish regiment currently deployed to Iraq is the 1st Battalion, The Royal Scots.
The 1st Battalion, the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders will deploy in Iraq in January 2004.
§ Mr. KeetchTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what guidance has been issued to(a) civilian staff, (b) military staff and (c) outside organisations regarding the transport of effects to service personnel in Iraq over Christmas; and if he will make a statement. [142449]
§ Mr. Ingram[holding answer 10 December 2003]: Family members of United Kingdom Forces personnel serving in Iraq are entitled to send an unlimited number of parcels up to 2kg in weight free of charge through the British Forces Post Office (BFPO).
The Ministry of Defence has made arrangements for the transport of traditional festive fare to British Forces personnel serving in Iraq. Organisations wishing to donate gifts have been encouraged to contact the MOD to discuss the nature of the gifts and to make arrangements for transport. Transport for such gifts has been provided where spare capacity MOD transport is available.