§ Lord Hannay of Chiswickasked Her Majesty's Government:
What scope they see in a new United Nations Security Council resolution on Iraq for expanding the role of the United Nations in the political work required to assist the emergence of stable, 28WA democratic and generally accepted institutions in Iraq; and what they are doing to bring about such an expansion. [HL4366]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe Government remain committed to a vital role for the UN in Iraq, as provided for by Security Council Resolution 1483. The Security Council is currently considering a draft resolution which would encourage further participation by the UN and the international community in assisting Iraq, including in the political processes leading to the formation of a representative government. The Secretary-General's report of 17 July (of which a copy has been placed in the Library of the House) identified further areas in which the UN could contribute to the initial effort in Iraq. The Government would support an increased UN contribution in these areas.
Following the terrorist attack on the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad on 19 August, the UN's efforts in Iraq have inevitably been scaled back. We are in discussion with the UN on the security measures needed to ensure that the UN is able to resume and expand its role in Iraq.