§ Mr. RosindellTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans he has to visit Iraq to view the reconstruction programme. [132130]
§ Mr. RammellMy right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary last visited Iraq on 2 July. His travel plans, including plans to visit Iraq, are kept under review. He hopes to be able to return soon. My noble Friend, the Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean, Minister of State for the Middle East, visited Iraq between 7 and 8 October.
§ Mr. RosindellTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how regularly he holds discussions with the US Secretary of State on the activities of coalition forces in Iraq. [132134]
§ Mr. RammellMy right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary discusses all aspects of policy on Iraq frequently with the US Secretary of State.
§ Mr. BestTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what support the UK is giving to the Iraq Governing Council and cabinet. [132241]
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§ Mr. RammellMinisters have established a dialogue with Governing Council members and Iraqi Ministers on providing assistance. British officials in Iraq help the Council and Ministries with policy and resources. Budgets for the Council and Ministries for 2003–04 have been agreed with the Coalition. We are engaging Iraqi Ministers at political level. My right. hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary, for example, hosted the Iraqi Foreign Minister on 7 October, and my noble Friend, the Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean met members of the Governing Council when she visited Baghdad on 8 October. Our policy objective remains to hand over full authority to Iraqis as soon as is practicable.