Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Tuesday, 25 March 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 31 March 2003. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Monday, 31 March 2003 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, If he will make a statement on his working relationship with the media during the conflict with Iraq. (Failed OPQ). - Inc ref to 'Working Arrangements with the Media in times of Emergency, Tension, Conflict or War'.

Answer: Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on his working relationship with the media during the conflict with Iraq. [105464] Dr. Moonie: The working relationship between the Ministry of Defence and the media during times of conflict or war is covered in detail in the Green Book-- "Working Arrangements with the Media in times of Emergency, Tension, Conflict or War". In the United Kingdom, we have provided the media with briefings by Ministers, officials and military officers, and arranged facilities to demonstrate our capabilities. In theatre, we have established a media information service at the Coalition Headquarters. We have also compiled a media pool of 128 accredited UK war correspondents who are now embedded with our forces in the Gulf. While it is inevitable that at times the relationship is bound to be tested, overall the new arrangements appear to be working very well for both parties.

Secondary information