Written question asked by Lord Campbell of Pittenweem (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 12 February 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 February 2004. It was answered by Jack Straw (Labour) on Monday, 23 February 2004 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what his policy is on the mandate of a transitional government in Iraq; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Sir Menzies Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his policy is on the mandate of a transitional Government in Iraq; and if he will make a statement. [155860] Mr. Straw: On 15 November 2003, the Iraqi Governing Council (IGC) announced the process and timetable for the hand-over of power in Iraq. This includes the drafting of the Transitional Administrative Law (TAL), which will define the powers and principles of the Iraqi transitional administration. It is important that the TAL gains wide acceptance among Iraqis. It is currently being debated within the IGC. We will use our influence to help ensure that the TAL safeguards fundamental rights and contributes to the building of a free, democratic Iraq at peace with its neighbours.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 418 c86W; 155860
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Iraq Politics and government Legal systems Iraqi Governing Council
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk