Written question asked by Tom Brake (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 30 April 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 7 May 2003. It was answered by Clare Short (Labour) on Wednesday, 7 May 2003 on behalf of the Department for International Development.

Dept for International Development

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, If she will make a statement on reconstruction in Iraq. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on reconstruction in Iraq. [111528] Clare Short: The Geneva Convention and the Hague Regulations impose obligations on occupying powers to provide for humanitarian needs, keep order and to keep the civil administration operating. The Office for Reconstruction and Humanitarian Assistance (ORHA) has a leading responsibility for the fulfilment of these requirements. Once there is a UN mandate for reconstruction the UK, the international community and in particular the international financial institutions will be able to engage in reconstruction needs in Iraq. World bank and International Monetary Fund economic and social needs assessments will begin in the coming weeks. Our engagement will reflect the needs highlighted in these assessments.

Secondary information