Written question asked by John Bercow (Conservative) on Monday, 13 March 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 15 March 2006. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Monday, 20 March 2006 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Iraq

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of reports that paramilitary troops are carrying out torture and executions in Iraq with the consent of the Interior Ministry.

Answer: We are aware of these reports and have raised our serious concerns with the Iraqi authorities at the highest levels. They have confirmed their commitment to the observance of human rights in Iraq, that such practices are contrary to Iraqi Government policy and that they are investigating. We are working with the Iraqi Government and international partners to develop respect for human rights through capacity building and awareness programmes. Helping to prevent further abuse is integral to our training of the security forces in Iraq.

Secondary information