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Terrorism (Foreign Policy Aspects)

: I was about to say that opposition to stability and the democratic processes in Iraq comes not only from elements of the former Ba'athist regime. I have seen the work that our forces have been doing in the south of Iraq, and I believe that our Government have been doing a very important job. I also know that great diplomatic efforts have been made to talk particularly to the Iranians about their activities in southern Iraq. It is clear from the events of recent months that there has been a big problem, as there is evidence that Iranian-backed groups have been involved in activities designed to attack British and other coalition forces in southern Iraq. Suggestions have been made that Iranian militant groups are linked to factions in the Iraqi police force. There was an incident on 19 September in which members of our military—I believe that they were special forces; at least, that is what has been reported in the press—were detained by Iraqis and had to be freed by military intervention. That led to a very serious incident and a deterioration in relations in Basra at the time, and followed a period in which it was clear that British Army convoys had been attacked by roadside bombs with shaped charges that could punch through the vehicles' armour. It was clear that the incident was linked directly to Iran or to Hezbollah-trained people linked to Iran. We must take that grave matter seriously for the future. The Iraqi police and the Iraqi defence forces are not yet strong enough to provide security even after the democratic elections next year. They will need assistance from the international community for some considerable time. I am sure that when the Committee considers Iraq in coming months, we will comment on those matters in detail.