HC Deb 01 March 2004 vol 418 cc776-7W
Mr. Cousins

To ask the Prime Minister whether it is his policy to press for the return to the people of Iraq of unallocated resources in the hands of the UN Compensation Commission. [157059]

The Prime Minister

The United Nations Compensation Commission (UNCC) was established in 1991 to assess and pay claims in compensation for losses as a result of Iraq's illegal invasion of Kuwait in 1990. The UNCC has completed more than 98 per cent. of its claims work and it is the UK Government's position that this work should be completed.

UN Security Council Resolution 1483 (22 May 2003) decided that 5 per cent. of Iraqi oil revenues would be deposited in the UNCC fund to meet awards. This will continue unless an internationally recognised, representative Government of Iraq and the Governing Council of the UNCC decide otherwise.

Lynne Jones

To ask the Prime Minister what discussions he has had with President Bush on the allegation that Saddam Hussein attempted to procure uranium from Africa. [157136]

The Prime Minister

I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Linlithgow (Mr. Dalyell) on 15 July 2003,Official Report, column 174W.

Mr. Cousins

To ask the Prime Minister what reports he has received that Iraq assembled and tested a long range artillery shell packed with irradiated zirconium. [157577]

The Prime Minister

None.

Tom Cox

To ask the Prime Minister whether British officials have visited Saddam Hussein since his capture by the United States authorities. [158031]

The Prime Minister

No British officials have visited Saddam Hussein since his capture