Written question asked by Lord Campbell of Pittenweem (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 11 June 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 June 2003. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Monday, 23 June 2003 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many samples of suspected chemical and biological agents have been (a) found and (b) confirmed by Coalition forces in Iraq; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Menzies Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many samples of suspected chemical and biological agents have been (a) found and (b) confirmed by coalition forces in Iraq; and if he will make a statement. [119592] Mr. Ingram: The coalition's extensive investigations into Iraq's weapons of mass destruction are at an early stage. But we are committed to what may be a long process. At the present time, samples of suspected chemical and biological agents are taken by a range of coalition units with data logged by the unit concerned in-theatre. At the appropriate time we will make the evidence public.

Secondary information