Written question asked by Lord Hague of Richmond (Conservative) on Thursday, 14 June 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 June 2007. It was answered by Hilary Benn (Labour) on Thursday, 21 June 2007 on behalf of the Department for International Development.

Iraq: Internally Displaced Persons

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk of 7 June 2007, official report, column 685W, on Iraq: internally displaced persons, what form he expects the Iraqi Government's lead role in supporting Iraqi refugees outside Iraq to take; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: The most important thing that needs to happen in Iraq is an end to the spiralling violence responsible for the deteriorating humanitarian situation and increasing levels of displacement. The Government of Iraq has put dealing with security at the top of its agenda and we will continue to support them. Furthermore, it has primary responsibility to ensure the protection of its citizens.At the April UNHCR Conference in Geneva, the Government of Iraq made a commitment to take the lead in providing support and security for its citizens, including those who have fled the country. In the first phase, they pledged $25 million to finance the establishment of migration offices in Jordan and Syria. These offices will support vulnerable Iraqis and help alleviate the burden of the influx of refugees on host countries. We will continue to press them to step up their response to the situation and develop their policy on how best to provide assistance.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 143949; 461 c1980-1W
Session: 2006-07
Related items: Iraq: Internally Displaced Persons
Thursday, 7 June 2007
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Iraq Internally displaced people
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk