§ Lord Lester of Herne Hillasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the Written Answer by the Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean on 19 April (WA 5), whether the Coalition Provisional Authority or the coalition forces are required by law to respect the fundamental human rights of Iraqi people, as defined in the bill of rights contained in the transitional administrative law for Iraq or otherwise; and if not, what recourse is available to 10WA the people of Iraq for breaches of those rights by the authority or the forces. [HL2545]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) and the coalition forces as occupying powers in Iraq are required to conduct themselves in accordance with the rules of international law, which includes respecting the human rights of the Iraqi people. The CPA and the coalition are also responsible for upholding the law of the land, which until a new constitution has been agreed by the Iraqis is the Transitional Administrative Law (TAL). We take very seriously any allegations alleging breaches of human rights. Iraqis will have recourse to the Iraqi justice system for any infringements of their rights in the TAL. For incidents relating to UK personnel, it is standard practice for an independent investigation to be undertaken if there is any doubt as to whether the appropriate rules of engagement have been adhered to. If an investigation concludes that there was wrongdoing on the part of UK personnel, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken, including criminal proceedings where necessary.