Written question asked by Alistair Carmichael (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 23 March 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 29 March 2004. It was answered by Geoffrey Hoon (Labour) on Monday, 29 March 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make a statement on the security situation in Iraq. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Mr. Carmichael: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the security situation in Iraq. [163775] Mr. Hoon: The security situation in Iraq remains difficult, with crime a particular problem. The vast majority of terrorist attacks against Iraqi and Coalition security forces and civilians continue to occur to the North and West of Baghdad. Much of the country is calm, however, and normal life is resuming without incident. Around 75,000 Iraqi police are now on duty and more are being trained. I am sure the House would wish to join me in congratulating British forces for the courage and restraint they showed in calming the recent unrest in Basrah.

Secondary information