§ Lord Morris of Manchesterasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they have evidence to justify consideration of legal action against any leading members of the former regime in Iraq for crimes against humanity; and whether any action is under active consideration. [HL3101]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanWe have always believed that those who have been responsible for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in Iraq should be brought to justice. UK forces have been tasked with securing and protecting evidence of such crimes as they encounter it and with handing it over to the relevant prosecuting authorities at the appropriate time. The UK sent a team of nine forensic experts to Iraq on 21 May to investigate war crimes and mass graves and to make recommendations for further assistance in this area.
We believe that it will be for the Iraqi people to decide what action to take, with suitable international help. A team of coalition specialists has started the process of assessing the situation on the ground, listening to the wishes of the Iraqi people, and making recommendations for future action.