Written question asked by David Winnick (Labour) on Tuesday, 7 March 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 10 March 2000. It was answered by Lord Hain (Labour) on Friday, 10 March 2000 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what is the Government's estimate of the number of children in Iraq who are likely to lack adequate medical treatment as a result of UN sanctions.

Answer: Mr. Winnick: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the Government's estimate of the number of children in Iraq who are likely to lack adequate medical treatment as a result of UN sanctions. [114121] Mr. Hain: Sanctions have never prohibited the import of medicines into Iraq. While the international community has sought to maximise the relief available to the Iraqi people, the Government of Iraq has refused to put their welfare first. For example, the latest UN report notes that one quarter of all medical goods delivered to Iraq since the "oil for food" programme began have not been distributed. Under "oil for food" the Government of Iraq decides how much oil revenue will be allocated to purchase medical goods. The UN Secretary General has repeatedly observed that Iraq needs to give greater attention to the provision of basic pharmaceuticals, primary and preventive health-care services and material support for more effective distribution.

Secondary information