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Ministry of Defence

Answer

Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will publish the advice he has given to the (a) print and (b) broadcast media to permit them to have access to the conflict in Iraq whilst maintaining personal safety. [105375] Dr. Moonie: In relation to war correspondents embedded with United Kingdom forces in the Gulf, the arrangements for the print and broadcast media are conducted in accordance with the guidance set out in the Green Book, which is entitled "Working Arrangements with the Media in times of Emergency, Tension, Conflict or War". A copy of this is available on the Ministry of Defence web-site (www.MOD.UK). The Green Book sets out the arrangements for the selection of, and regulations for, accredited war correspondents. In return for protection and support, and access to other facilities, correspondents agree to undergo the necessary training and to abide by the operational security and safety measures required by the unit to which they are attached. The Ministry of Defence has no responsibility for the activities of independent media personnel. The current FCO travel advice is not to travel to Iraq. This advice has been strongly emphasised to the media by the Ministry of Defence.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

105375; 402 c307W

Session

2002-03

Subjects

Broadcasting Armed conflict Iraq Journalism Press Newspaper press Staff Safety Iraq conflict

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk