§ 7. Bob SpinkTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent discussions he had in Iraq on support for ethnic groups. [164507]
§ Hilary BennIn Baghdad and Basra last week I held discussions on a wide range of issues including those affecting ethnic and religious groups. DFID is not providing assistance in support of any specific groups. DFID aims to promote social and political cohesion by increasing the participation of all Iraqis in the democratic process. DFID recently agreed to establish a £5 million political participation fund to assist towards meeting this objective.
§ Hugh BayleyTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if he will make a statement on post-war reconstruction and development in Iraq. [164156]
§ Hilary BennI refer the hon. Member to the Written Statement I made to the House on 25 March 2004,Official Report, column 66WS, following my visit to Iraq on 22–23 March.