Written question asked by Keith Simpson (Conservative) on Wednesday, 6 June 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 11 June 2007. It was answered by Geoffrey Hoon (Labour) on Monday, 11 June 2007 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Iraq: Peace Keeping Operations

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment has been made of the impact of the US surge strategy for Baghdad on security levels in the city; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: The increase in US forces in Baghdad and the surrounding provinces, as part of the Multinational Force in Iraq, is intended to support the Iraqi-led Baghdad Security Plan, which also involves the deployment of additional Iraq security force personnel as well as a range of political and economic activities. It would be premature to judge the success of the plan before all the additional US forces are in theatre.Ultimately, the strategy is designed to create the political space necessary for progress by the Government of Iraq and other Iraqi parties and communities on national political issues, including reconciliation. We continue to provide encouragement and practical support for this process.

Secondary information