Written question asked by Lynne Jones (Labour) on Thursday, 15 May 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 3 June 2003. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Tuesday, 3 June 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 action he is taking under international law as an occupying power to (a) ensure public order and safety in Iraq, (b) meet the basic needs of the Iraqi population, (c) protect displaced persons and refugees, (d) respect the rights of detainees and (e) ensure justice in Iraq.

Answer: Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action he is taking under international law as an occupying power to (a) ensure public order and safety in Iraq, (b) meet the basic needs of the Iraqi population, (c) protect displaced persons and refugees, (d) respect the rights of detainees and (e) ensure justice in Iraq. [114879] Mr. Mike O'Brien: The UK takes its legal responsibilities as an Occupying Power under the Geneva and Hague Conventions very seriously. The Coalition condemns looting and has stressed its commitment to preventing it. Looting and lawlessness appear to be declining in most areas. In the UK area of operations suspected looters are arrested and detained.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 114879; 406 c4W;406 c5W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Administration of justice Asylum Detainees Civilians Humanitarian aid Iraq International cooperation Protection Public order offences Public order Refugees Reconstruction
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk