Written question asked by Nick Harvey (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 21 March 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 27 March 2003. It was answered by Clare Short (Labour) on Thursday, 27 March 2003 on behalf of the Department for International Development.

Dept for International Development

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, what recent discussions and representations she has had with the (a) United States, (b) United Nations, (c) European Union, (d) other states and (e) organisations and individuals regarding the reconstruction and development of (i) broadcasting and (ii) cultural services in Iraq; and if she will make a statement; how much her Department has committed to the reconstruction of broadcasting and cultural services in Iraq, broken down by type; and what proportion this constitutes of the total post-conflict funds for such measures.

Answer: Nick Harvey: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development (1) what recent discussions and representations she has had with the (a) United States, (b) United Nations, (c) European Union, (d) other states and (e) organisations and individuals regarding the reconstruction and development of (i) broadcasting and (ii) cultural services in Iraq; and if she will make a statement; [105039] (2) how much her Department has committed to the reconstruction of broadcasting and cultural services in Iraq, broken down by type; and what proportion this constitutes of the total post-conflict funds for such measures. [105040] Clare Short: It is too soon to allocate funds for the post-war reconstruction of Iraqi broadcasting and cultural services. We are having some discussions on these and other reconstruction issues, but our first priority is to secure a UN mandate to provide legal authority for the overall reconstruction effort. This would make possible the engagement of the International Financial Institutions and the wider international community. The Government are holding on-going discussions with key partners to ensure such a mandate is put in place.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 105039;105040; 402 c353-4W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Broadcasting Development aid European Union Iraq International cooperation United Nations USA Reconstruction Cultural relations
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk