Written question asked by Joan Ruddock (Labour) on Monday, 5 July 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 8 July 2004. It was answered by Patricia Hewitt (Labour) on Thursday, 8 July 2004 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry;Minister for Women

Question: To ask the Minister for Women, what support the Government is giving to the Iraqi Women's Higher Council. (Failed OPQ)

Answer: Joan Ruddock: To ask the Minister for Women, what support the Government is giving to the Iraqi Women's Higher Council. [182674] Ms Hewitt: The Iraqi Women's Higher Council (IWHC) was the first of a number of women's organisations to evolve over the last year. Following a scoping study of the needs of new, emerging women's NGOs in Iraq, commissioned by DfID earlier this year, the UK is now supporting the development of a diverse NGO sector. We believe this will provide a strong and sustainable base for ensuring women's voices are heard, and women play a full part in the future of their nation. Currently we are helping to increase women's organisations' influence in national policy and the political process through both the Civil Society Support Fund and the Political Participation Fund.

Secondary information