Written question asked by Tam Dalyell (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 June 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 21 June 1999. It was answered by Lord Robertson of Port Ellen (Labour) on Monday, 21 June 1999 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, Pursuant to his Answer of 18th May, 331 c303W, on Iraqi no-fly zones, if he will take steps to investigate the Iraqi claims of civilian casualties caused on 29th and 30th April and 12th May. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Mr. Dalyell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to his answer of 18 May 1999, Official Report, column 303, on Iraqi no-fly zones, if he will take steps to investigate the Iraqi claims of civilian casualties caused on 29 and 30 April and 12 May. [86546] Mr. George Robertson: I am aware of Iraqi claims of civilian casualties occurring on the dates in question. As we have repeatedly said, we make every effort to reduce the risk of any such casualties and very much regret if they occur. But I can confirm that on all three days, repeated and direct threats from Iraqi forces, including heavy anti-aircraft fire, forced coalition aircraft patrolling the northern no fly zone in Iraq to take defensive action.

Secondary information