Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Astor of Hever (Conservative). It was answered on Monday, 27 April 2009.

Iraq: Defence Industry Contracts

Question: My Lords, I am grateful to the Minister for that reply. As a main coalition partner, our Armed Forces have made huge sacrifices in Iraq, yet we have sat back and watched the Americans walk away with one of the biggest rearmament and rebuilding programmes ever seen, leaving us with virtually nothing. What representation does DSO have in Iraq, and with billions of dollars of future sales expected, will it now take a more dynamic official role in promoting British companies there?

Answer: My Lords, I appreciate the sentiment expressed by the noble Lord, but he is slightly understating the presence and activity of UK representatives in this matter. None the less, it is the case that there is a clear Iraqi preference to make procurement for its Armed Forces through United States foreign military sales. Indeed, you could say that they are rather dependent on a foreign military sales system because it is easier for them. However, they are making moves towards direct contracts with other countries and we will be encouraging that.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 710 c7
Session: 2008-09
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Subjects: Contracts Armed forces Arms trade Defence equipment Iraq Procurement Trade promotion
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk