§ Llew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received in respect of those countries that assisted Iraq in the development of the Al-Samoud-2 missile. [100041]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThere are reports that Iraq has received assistance with the development of the Al-Samoud-2 missile from outside Iraq.
It is not Government practice to comment in detail on intelligence matters.
§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether his Department has had discussions with the US and European partners concerning women's involvement at all levels in the administration planned after military action in Iraq. [100045]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienNo decision has been taken to launch military action against Iraq. Our policy remains to ensure Iraq complies with its obligations under relevant Security Council resolutions, including by giving up its weapons of mass destruction. As my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary said in his 7 January statement,Official Report, column 4–5WS on our Iraq policy objectives, we would like Iraq to become a stable, united and law-abiding state, within its present borders, co-operating with the international community, no longer posing a threat to its neighbours or to international security, abiding by all its international obligations and providing effective and representative government for its own people.