Written question asked by Angus Robertson (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 17 September 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 14 October 2003. It was answered by Bill Rammell (Labour) on Tuesday, 14 October 2003 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 representations have been made to his Department over possible Turkish military deployment in Iraq; who raised these concerns; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations have been made to his Department over possible Turkish military deployment in Iraq; who raised these concerns; and if he will make a statement. [131442] Mr. Rammell: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and FCO and MOD officials have discussed a possible Turkish military deployment to Iraq with representatives of the Turkish Government and with the Iraqi Governing Council (IGC). We welcome the generous offer of Turkish troops, and the vote in the Turkish Parliament to approve this in principle. The practicalities of the potential deployment are a matter for the US and the Turkish Governments, taking into full consideration local sensitivities, including those raised by the IGC.

Secondary information