Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Howell of Guildford (Conservative) on Monday, 21 March 2011.

Iraq

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they intend to ask for the release of all writers and journalists recently arrested in Iraq, following the appeal of the Writers' Union.

Answer: Following reports of the harassment of protestors in Iraq, including journalists, Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister Alistair Burt released the following statement: "““We have been following events in Iraq closely. We are concerned at a number of reports of harassment of protestors, including political groups associated with the protests, and of violence against journalists and media offices across Iraq. We call on the Iraqi and Kurdish authorities to investigate these incidents and to protect the right to freedom of expression and assembly.””" Our officials in Iraq regularly meet with journalists and media outlets to discuss their concerns. On 9 March 2011, embassy officials in Baghdad discussed recent developments with the Trade Union Congress. They will continue to raise any concerns as appropriate with the Iraqi authorities.

Secondary information