Written question asked by Llew Smith (Labour) on Tuesday, 9 November 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 November 2004. It was answered by Gareth Thomas (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 November 2004 on behalf of the Department for International Development.

Dept for International Development

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, what assessment he proposes to offer to the interim Iraqi Government to restore the (a) water, (b) sewage, (c) power and (d) telephone infrastructure, following recent military action against Falluja.

Answer: Llew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assistance he proposes to offer to the interim Iraqi Government to restore the (a) water, (b) sewage, (c) power and (d) telephone infrastructure, following recent military action against Falluja. [198012] Mr. Gareth Thomas: The Interim Iraqi Government (IIG) is leading on reconstruction work in Fallujah following the recent military action. A ministerial level co-ordinator has been appointed and significant funds from the Iraqi Government budget have already been set aside for this work. An Iraqi Ministry of Health assessment team visited Fallujah hospital on 11 November and further assessments are planned, security permitting. The IIG is being supported by the Multi-National Force-Iraq, which also has considerable resources for immediate post-conflict reconstruction work including clearing rubble and the restoration of water, sewerage and electricity services. DFID is in close contact with the Interim Iraqi Government and is ready to respond positively to requests from them for help or advice. DFID is also keen to see independent assessments of the situation once it is safe for agencies to enter Fallujah.

Secondary information