§ Lord Aveburyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they consider that a permanent constitutional settlement in Iraq must include confirmation of the autonomy of the four northern governorates, including Kirkuk.[HL5018]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe Iraqi Governing Council (GC) appointed a Constitutional Preparatory Committee (CPC) in August to start the process of deciding a new Iraqi constitution. Following the CPC's report to the GC in early October and the adoption of UN resolution 1511, the GC has been tasked by the United Nations Security Council to report on the way forward and set a timetable by 15 December for adoption of a new constitution and elections. The relationship between Iraq's central authorities and its governorates will be addressed during this process, which is managed entirely by Iraqis for Iraq.