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Williams of Crosby, Baroness
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Williams of Crosby, Baroness (42)
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To ask Her Majesty’s Government, in light of the recent comments from Binyam Mohamed, who authorised the transfer of people detained by British forces to covert detention centres; and who authorised MI5 to co-operate in their interrogation.
To ask Her Majesty’s Government, in light of the recent comments from Binyam Mohamed, who authorised the transfer of people detained by British forces to covert detention centres; and who authorised MI5 to co-operate in their interrogation.
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Baroness Taylor of Bolton
(Labour)
Oral questions - Lead
Status
Answered
Procedure
Topical questions (HL)
For answer on
17 March 2009
Answered on
17 March 2009
My Lords, I refer the noble Baroness to the Statement made by my right honourable friend the Defence Secretary in another place, and repeated in this House, on 26 February 2009, which outlined the results of a Ministry of Defence review of the records of detentions resulting from security operations carried out by the UK Armed Forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Beyond that, it is the long-standing policy of the Government not to comment on intelligence matters.
Subjects
Detainees; Armed forces; Intelligence services; Iraq; Prisoners' transfers; Peacekeeping operations; MI5; Terrorism; Torture; Afghanistan; Rendition
Date
17 March 2009
Reference
709 c116
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, I thank the Minister for that reply and turn to its second part. I think that most of us would agree that the first duty of a democratic Parliament is to hold the Executive to account; that is the very core of what it is there for. The House will be aware that we now have allegations—I repeat, allegations—of British complicity in extraordinary rendition and torture from Morocco, Egypt, the Gambia, Guantanamo Bay, Iraq and some other places. Even more embarrassingly, we have a United Nations report on the matter which holds Britain responsible for illegal and concealing acts. In the light of such rumours, would it not be better for a country with our reputation and standing in the world to appoint an independent inquiry to go into these matters, which go far beyond the case of Binyam Mohamed, so that the air can be cleared and we can once again assume our position in the world as supporters of civil liberties and freedom?
My Lords, I thank the Minister for that reply and turn to its second part. I think that most of us would agree that the first duty of a democratic Parliament is to hold the Executive to account; that is the very core of what it is there for. The House will be aware that we now have allegations—I repeat, allegations—of British complicity in extraordinary rendition and torture from Morocco, Egypt, the Gambia, Guantanamo Bay, Iraq and some other places. Even more embarrassingly, we have a United Nations report on the matter which holds Britain responsible for illegal and concealing acts. In the light of such rumours, would it not be better for a country with our reputation and standing in the world to appoint an independent inquiry to go into these matters, which go far beyond the case of Binyam Mohamed, so that the air can be cleared and we can once again assume our position in the world as supporters of civil liberties and freedom?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - 1st Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
17 March 2009
My Lords, as supporters of civil liberties and freedom we all have a very significant responsibility. The noble Baroness says that our first responsibility is to keep the Executive under control and accountable. That is indeed a very important responsibility although it is perhaps not quite as important as protecting the lives and well-being of our own citizens, which have come under threat from terrorism. Although there is obviously a balance to be struck there, accountability is a very important principle that must come throughout our considerations. The noble Baroness asks whether we should have a public inquiry. I think that the Government have made it clear that that is not an appropriate way forward. We have the Intelligence and Security Committee which provides oversight of the intelligence agencies. It is important that the Government should keep that body well informed. As the House will know, the matter of possible criminal wrongdoing has been referred to the Attorney-General, who was here to answer questions and, I hope, to convince the House of the seriousness with which she will investigate this matter.
Subjects
Detainees; Armed forces; Intelligence services; Prisoners' transfers; Terrorism; Torture; Rendition; Iraq; Peacekeeping operations; MI5; Afghanistan
Date
17 March 2009
Reference
709 c116-7
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, does the Minister agree that we have heard a series of rumours about extraordinary rendition ever since the war in Iraq began; that those rumours have, in turn, led to a series of Parliamentary Questions in both Chambers; that those Questions have mostly been met by Answers that were not complete; and that, to this day, none of us knows exactly what the situation is? May I therefore ask, first, whether we have any evidence that the United States ships used as prisons were either maintained or refuelled in Diego Garcia or its immediate territorial waters? Secondly, do we know whether there are manifests for such ships and, if there are, whether we have examined carefully such manifests for possible links to British citizens?
My Lords, does the Minister agree that we have heard a series of rumours about extraordinary rendition ever since the war in Iraq began; that those rumours have, in turn, led to a series of Parliamentary Questions in both Chambers; that those Questions have mostly been met by Answers that were not complete; and that, to this day, none of us knows exactly what the situation is? May I therefore ask, first, whether we have any evidence that the United States ships used as prisons were either maintained or refuelled in Diego Garcia or its immediate territorial waters? Secondly, do we know whether there are manifests for such ships and, if there are, whether we have examined carefully such manifests for possible links to British citizens?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
4 June 2008
My Lords, I agree with the noble Baroness that there have been stories around this issue for many years and many suggestions have been made. It was for that reason, among others, following what happened in February, that the Foreign Secretary wrote to Secretary Rice to clarify a number of specific issues. These included the question raised by the noble Baroness whether detainees were ever held on ships outside the territorial water of Diego Garcia but perhaps supplied from the island. There is, as yet, no response to that letter. There will be a response. I will tell the noble Baroness if and when a response comes.
Subjects
Detainees; British nationality; Iraq; Prisons; Navy; Warships; USA
Date
4 June 2008
Reference
702 c157
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, does the Minister agree that in the light of our shared responsibility for what has happened in Iraq, for the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people and for others who feel themselves in danger all the time, there really has to be a more generous response? Does she accept that if I were currently living in Afghanistan and asked to support or work with the British forces there, I would give very careful thought even to considering that, given my feelings about how those in Iraq had been treated?
My Lords, does the Minister agree that in the light of our shared responsibility for what has happened in Iraq, for the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people and for others who feel themselves in danger all the time, there really has to be a more generous response? Does she accept that if I were currently living in Afghanistan and asked to support or work with the British forces there, I would give very careful thought even to considering that, given my feelings about how those in Iraq had been treated?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
21 January 2008
My Lords, in response to that, we have announced a package of assistance for former and current employees, including a direct entry scheme for all current employees and a financial package of assistance. It is interesting to note that the latter appears to be more attractive than entry into the UK for current employees.
Subjects
Development aid; Iraq; Refugees; Internally displaced people
Date
21 January 2008
Reference
698 c4
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, does the Minister agree that Jordan is not only one of our closest allies in the Middle East but that its stability is crucial to middle-eastern strategy? Will she therefore consider the possibility of a discussion between the United Kingdom Government and Jordan, which have been very close allies for a long time, on the best way in which we can help Jordan to deal with its huge inflow of refugees? Secondly, on her very helpful answer to my noble friend Lady Northover, will she agree to keep a very close eye on the bureaucratic systems of the Home Office, which, to be frank, can stand in the way of people with a genuine need to come to this country because they have helped the British Government during the Iraq war, to enable them to be sure that they can look for safety in this country if they are already in danger?
My Lords, does the Minister agree that Jordan is not only one of our closest allies in the Middle East but that its stability is crucial to middle-eastern strategy? Will she therefore consider the possibility of a discussion between the United Kingdom Government and Jordan, which have been very close allies for a long time, on the best way in which we can help Jordan to deal with its huge inflow of refugees? Secondly, on her very helpful answer to my noble friend Lady Northover, will she agree to keep a very close eye on the bureaucratic systems of the Home Office, which, to be frank, can stand in the way of people with a genuine need to come to this country because they have helped the British Government during the Iraq war, to enable them to be sure that they can look for safety in this country if they are already in danger?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
11 June 2007
My Lords, one of our responsibilities towards neighbouring countries is to try to lessen the tension that has been building up in them as a result of refugees fleeing into them. Jordan remains very important in that regard, and we will continue to talk to it, to Kuwait and to other countries in the region. The Home Office must try to get the balance right between having a system thatis robust but that can take on board the many different circumstances that exist in different partsof the world. That is why it works with up-to-date, country-specific data, to enable it to take the right decisions in these cases.
Subjects
Armed conflict; Development aid; Iraq; Refugees; Internally displaced people; Iraq conflict
Date
11 June 2007
Reference
692 c1465-6
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, I thank the Minister for her reply. I simply remind the House that that meeting, which took place during the parliamentary Recess, was the first direct, open meeting held between the two countries at a senior level for 48 years. Importantly, they both agreed that they wanted to see a stable, secure and democratic Iraq. First, do Her Majesty’s Government welcome the suggestion put forward by the Iranian side that there should be a continuation of that trialogue between Iraq, Iran and the United States over the forthcoming months and years? Secondly, does the Minister agree that it is important for both the United States and Iran to desist from activities that upset and lead to distrust on the part of the other country?
My Lords, I thank the Minister for her reply. I simply remind the House that that meeting, which took place during the parliamentary Recess, was the first direct, open meeting held between the two countries at a senior level for 48 years. Importantly, they both agreed that they wanted to see a stable, secure and democratic Iraq. First, do Her Majesty’s Government welcome the suggestion put forward by the Iranian side that there should be a continuation of that trialogue between Iraq, Iran and the United States over the forthcoming months and years? Secondly, does the Minister agree that it is important for both the United States and Iran to desist from activities that upset and lead to distrust on the part of the other country?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - 1st Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
6 June 2007
My Lords, on the first question, the organisation of future meetings is, of course, for the parties concerned. However, Her Majesty’s Government would welcome any future contact between the three parties, because we believe that it is important to engage in dialogue and that it is the best way of bringing about a secure situation in Iraq. On the second question, we want all countries, be they neighbours or those active in Iraq, to desist from any actions that destabilise that country or the region itself.
Subjects
Iraq; Foreign relations; Politics and government; USA; Iran
Date
6 June 2007
Reference
692 c1128-9
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
What was the outcome of the recent discussions with Iran on stabilising Iraq.
What was the outcome of the recent discussions with Iran on stabilising Iraq.
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Baroness Royall of Blaisdon
(Labour)
Oral questions - Lead
Status
Answered
Procedure
Topical questions (HL)
For answer on
6 June 2007
Answered on
6 June 2007
My Lords, we welcome the fact that the US and Iranian ambassadors to Iraq and Iraqi government representatives met on 28 May in Baghdad. Her Majesty’s Government were not represented atthe meeting, so it would not be appropriate for usto characterise the outcomes. However, we have impressed on Iran bilaterally that a stable and secure Iraq is in the interests of all its neighbours, and that Iran should desist from activities which undermine that objective.
Subjects
Iraq; Foreign relations; Politics and government; Iran
Date
6 June 2007
Reference
692 c1128
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, I thank the Minister for that reply. However, I am sure that, like other noble Lords, she will be aware that one of our closest and most loyal allies, Jordan, is being absolutely swamped by refugees from Iraq, rising towards between 700,000 and 1 million people. One in eight people in Iraq have left their homes as refugees or been displaced. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees said that the existing position is very bad and deteriorating rapidly, and has asked for $60 million in emergency aid to be paid immediately to help in this desperate situation. Will the Government consider what donation they might make towards that sum? Will they also consider very carefully the likelihood that the so-called surge policy of the United States Administration will yet further increase this pathetic tide of refugees?
My Lords, I thank the Minister for that reply. However, I am sure that, like other noble Lords, she will be aware that one of our closest and most loyal allies, Jordan, is being absolutely swamped by refugees from Iraq, rising towards between 700,000 and 1 million people. One in eight people in Iraq have left their homes as refugees or been displaced. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees said that the existing position is very bad and deteriorating rapidly, and has asked for $60 million in emergency aid to be paid immediately to help in this desperate situation. Will the Government consider what donation they might make towards that sum? Will they also consider very carefully the likelihood that the so-called surge policy of the United States Administration will yet further increase this pathetic tide of refugees?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - 1st Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
24 January 2007
On the UNHCR, my Lords, the Government are at this very moment considering making a contribution. It is not that we do not intend to make a contribution but that, as noble Lords will know, the UN has more than £200 million of unspent resources in its trust fund under the International Reconstruction Fund Facility for Iraq. We hope that some of that money can be used for humanitarian relief. If it cannot, we will certainly make a contribution to the fund.
Subjects
Development aid; Humanitarian aid; Iraq; Refugees; UN High Commissioner for Refugees
Date
24 January 2007
Reference
688 c1103
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
What financial and logistical aid is being offered to Iraq’s neighbours to deal with the outflow of refugees from Iraq?
What financial and logistical aid is being offered to Iraq’s neighbours to deal with the outflow of refugees from Iraq?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Baroness Royall of Blaisdon
(Labour)
Oral questions - Lead
Status
Answered
Procedure
Topical questions (HL)
For answer on
24 January 2007
Answered on
24 January 2007
My Lords, we are concerned at the increasing number of people fleeing the violence in Iraq. The Government have just announced a £4 million contribution to the International Committee of the Red Cross to provide emergency assistance, including water, medical supplies and rehabilitation of the health infrastructure. This brings our total humanitarian contribution for Iraq to over £120 million since 2003. We are also considering the UNHCR’s appeal to help refugees in neighbouring countries. Above all, the first priority of the Iraqi Government must be to end the violence that is causing this situation, with the support of the international community and the region.
Subjects
Development aid; Humanitarian aid; Iraq; Refugees
Date
24 January 2007
Reference
688 c1102
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
In view of the decision by the Government of the United States to seek no further funds for the reconstruction of Iraq, what funds they have committed so far for that purpose and what funds already committed remain unspent.
In view of the decision by the Government of the United States to seek no further funds for the reconstruction of Iraq, what funds they have committed so far for that purpose and what funds already committed remain unspent.
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Baroness Amos
(Labour)
Oral questions - Lead
Status
Answered
For answer on
26 January 2006
Answered on
26 January 2006
My Lords, the UK Government committed £544 million for humanitarian and reconstruction assistance to Iraq from 2003 to 2006. Over £460 million has been spent to date. That includes our share of European Commission aid and our contributions to the UN and World Bank trust funds for Iraq, as well as our bilateral programme of support to the Iraqi Government and people.
Subjects
Development aid; Iraq; Reconstruction
Date
26 January 2006
Reference
677 c1273
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, I thank the noble Baroness for that Answer. First, why has less than half of the £131 million allocated for reconstruction in the Basra region in southern Iraq been spent, when the commitment runs out this year? Secondly, given that neither the electricity, water nor oil infrastructures are back to the levels they had reached shortly before the invasion of Iraq, what plans do the Government have to produce more funds for reconstruction after 2006?
My Lords, I thank the noble Baroness for that Answer. First, why has less than half of the £131 million allocated for reconstruction in the Basra region in southern Iraq been spent, when the commitment runs out this year? Secondly, given that neither the electricity, water nor oil infrastructures are back to the levels they had reached shortly before the invasion of Iraq, what plans do the Government have to produce more funds for reconstruction after 2006?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - 1st Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
26 January 2006
My Lords, I was not aware that less than half had been allocated with respect to southern Iraq. If I may, I will take that figure away and look at it, because it does not quite match with the information that I have been given.
With regard to infrastructure, the position is not quite as the noble Baroness, Lady Williams of Crosby, has set out. For example, electricity capacity is being added through reconstruction projects. Demand, of course, far outstrips supply. I know that the House will be aware that, now that the Iraqi economy has opened up, people are buying far more electrical goods, which is pushing up demand. In addition, as quickly as we are increasing capacity, the insurgents are targeting supplies and reducing that capacity, so there is an issue of security.
The House will want to know that sewage and waste-water treatment plants are now operating. There was none prior to the conflict. Some 1.25 million more Iraqis have access to potable water than before the conflict, and 9.6 million more have access to a sewerage system. Healthcare spending is more than 30 times the pre-war level. It is important that we remember that the access ordinary Iraqis had to some of those services was almost nil before the conflict started.
Subjects
Development aid; Expenditure; Electricity; Infrastructure; Iraq; Oil; Water; Reconstruction; Basra
Date
26 January 2006
Reference
677 c1273-4
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
Of the $900 million they have committed for the reconstruction of Iraq since October 2003, and the $18.4 billion committed by the United States Government, how much has been diverted to other purposes, such as security; and how much has been spent on reconstruction.
Of the $900 million they have committed for the reconstruction of Iraq since October 2003, and the $18.4 billion committed by the United States Government, how much has been diverted to other purposes, such as security; and how much has been spent on reconstruction.
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Baroness Amos
(Labour)
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Answered on
19 January 2006
The United Kingdom has pledged £544 million (US$ 900 million) for humanitarian and reconstruction assistance to Iraq between 2003 and 2006, and disbursed over £460 million. This can be broken down as follows:
Of the £544 million total, we expect to disburse approximately £55 million on life-support, which includes providing security to personnel as well as other costs, such as their food and accommodation. Such life-support is necessary and integral to effective delivery of the humanitarian and reconstruction programmes above.Our £84 million contribution to the 2003 UN consolidated appeal included a £3 million contribution to the security costs of United Nations operations in Iraq.The United States’$18.4 billion Iraq Relief and Reconstruction Fund (IRRF) is currently broken down by sector as follows:
| Committed | Disbursed | |
| £ sterling (millions) | £ sterling (millions) | |
| DfID | ||
| United Nations Agencies in response to 2003 emergency appeals | 84 | 84 |
| Red Cross appeals | 32 | 28 |
| Reconstruction in southern Iraq | 131 | 62 |
| Advisory support to government, justice, media and civil society | 52 | 18 |
| DfID secondments and consultants for the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) | 28 | 24 |
| Contribution to the International Reconstruction Fund Facility for Iraq (IRFFI)—United Nations and World Bank trust funds | 70 | 70 |
| Other multilateral contributions | 11 | 5 |
| NGO support | 7 | 6 |
| DfID Attribution of European Commission (EC) Contribution | 67 | |
| FCO secondments | 38 | |
| Global Conflict Prevention Pool (GCPP) | 30 | |
| MoD Quick Impact Projects | 28 | |
| Grand Total | 460 |
| Apportioned | Committed | Disbursed | |
| Sector | US$ Millions | US$ Millions | US$ Millions |
| Security and Law Enforcement | 5,021 | 4,948 | 4,097 |
| Electricity Sector | 4,310 | 3,833 | 1,799 |
| Oil Infrastructure | 1,723 | 1,684 | 658 |
| Justice, Public Safety and Civil Society | 1,251 | 1,215 | 674 |
| Democracy | 1,004 | 968 | 654 |
| Education, Refugees, Human Rights and Governance | 363 | 339 | 199 |
| Roads, Bridges and Construction | 334 | 291 | 159 |
| Healthcare | 786 | 727 | 345 |
| Transport and Communications | 509 | 446 | 209 |
| Water Resources and Sanitation | 2,131 | 1,585 | 695 |
| Private Sector Development | 795 | 794 | 556 |
| Administrative Expenses | 213 | 151 | 58 |
| Total | 18,439 | 16,982 | 10,102 |
Subjects
Development aid; Expenditure; Iraq; Security; USA; Reconstruction; Foreign aid
Date
19 January 2006
Reference
3292; 677 c129-30WA
House
House of Lords
My Lords, the Minister’s reply did not address the very many reports from Iraq to the effect that the police service in the region for which we are responsible has been substantially infiltrated by members of the Shia militia. What steps are being taken to ensure that members of the militia are rooted out of the police? What in-service training is there? Does he regard the insurgency militia recruitment problem as having been overcome?
My Lords, the Minister’s reply did not address the very many reports from Iraq to the effect that the police service in the region for which we are responsible has been substantially infiltrated by members of the Shia militia. What steps are being taken to ensure that members of the militia are rooted out of the police? What in-service training is there? Does he regard the insurgency militia recruitment problem as having been overcome?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
8 December 2005
My Lords, the purpose of Sir Ronnie’s review is to give us a stocktake of the progress that we are making, so that we can ensure that we are making progress in lobbying and encouraging the Ministry of Interior to root out those elements in the police force. It is true that we have had that problem, and it still exists. We should not overestimate the extent of the problem. In three of the four sections of MND Southeast we have no trouble with this at all. The focus is in the Basra area. We are encouraging the Ministry of Interior to be very robust on this matter. We need to see the results of Sir Ronnie’s review and then judge whether more needs to be done to accelerate that process.
Subjects
Iraq; Police; Reviews
Date
8 December 2005
Reference
676 c745-6
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, we on these Benches express our deep sympathy with the family of the soldier who has sadly lost his life in Basra, and with the families of the two brave and gallant women police constables who were shot in Bradford.
The Minister answered the previous question by saying that he had no evidence of discrimination. I press him further. Are steps taken to ensure that in the recruitment and—especially—the training of police services in Iraq, young men and women are told about the dangers of discrimination, particularly sectarian and gender discrimination? It looks a little as though the police forces have, to say the least, been somewhat infiltrated by powerful sectarian groups.
My Lords, we on these Benches express our deep sympathy with the family of the soldier who has sadly lost his life in Basra, and with the families of the two brave and gallant women police constables who were shot in Bradford.
The Minister answered the previous question by saying that he had no evidence of discrimination. I press him further. Are steps taken to ensure that in the recruitment and—especially—the training of police services in Iraq, young men and women are told about the dangers of discrimination, particularly sectarian and gender discrimination? It looks a little as though the police forces have, to say the least, been somewhat infiltrated by powerful sectarian groups.
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
21 November 2005
My Lords, in the training missions which we operate with the police forces being recruited—we, of course, are principally concerned with recruitment in the south of the country—we make every provision to ensure that there is anti-discriminatory training. It may well take some time for those lessons to take root. There has been a particular effort, however, to recruit women into the police force, including specialist women and those who can deal with the juvenile detention unit in Basra. I chart not success or complacency, but the beginning of a long process in which those ingredients must be focal.
Subjects
Iraq; Religious freedom; Christianity; Women's rights
Date
21 November 2005
Reference
675 c1375
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, I thank the Minister for his reply, and draw attention particularly to his final sentence where he points out that we are heavily dependent on the future of the Iraq security forces in order to enable us to relieve the burden of having so many troops in Iraq at the present time. However, is he aware of the casualty rate in September alone? In that month alone—according to the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington DC, whose facts have not been questioned by the US Government—498 members of the security forces lost their lives. That is a rate of over 3 per cent of the total strength of the Iraq security forces. In particular, is he aware that, on 27 September in Baquba, no fewer than 12 would-be police recruits lost their lives and 30 others were seriously wounded, and that on the following day, in Tal Afar, seven would-be recruits to the Iraqi army were killed and another 37 wounded? Would the Minister care to comment on what steps we can take to protect these loyal and courageous people?
My Lords, I thank the Minister for his reply, and draw attention particularly to his final sentence where he points out that we are heavily dependent on the future of the Iraq security forces in order to enable us to relieve the burden of having so many troops in Iraq at the present time. However, is he aware of the casualty rate in September alone? In that month alone—according to the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington DC, whose facts have not been questioned by the US Government—498 members of the security forces lost their lives. That is a rate of over 3 per cent of the total strength of the Iraq security forces. In particular, is he aware that, on 27 September in Baquba, no fewer than 12 would-be police recruits lost their lives and 30 others were seriously wounded, and that on the following day, in Tal Afar, seven would-be recruits to the Iraqi army were killed and another 37 wounded? Would the Minister care to comment on what steps we can take to protect these loyal and courageous people?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - 1st Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
26 October 2005
My Lords, the noble Baroness is absolutely right to highlight the tragic loss of life in the Iraqi security forces. It is absolutely fundamental that we do everything that we can to help the forces as they gain strength to develop the capability to be able to defend themselves properly and to take over the security of Iraq. I am able to report this week in the House that 206,000 members of the security forces are now in place. As noble Lords will remember, last week the figure was 200,000 and the week before 190,000. A significant increase in numbers is taking place. The key to their protection is in the adoption of the knowledge that we developed in Northern Ireland in the work that we do. I am afraid that I cannot go into the details in the House, but I can say that we are seeing an improvement in the capability of the security forces in their operations in Iraq.
Subjects
Casualties; Iraq; Protection; Police; Recruitment; Security; Peacekeeping operations
Date
26 October 2005
Reference
674 c1162-3
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
What steps are being taken by the coalition forces in Iraq, in conjunction with the Iraq Government, to protect Iraqi citizens seeking to be recruited to the country’s security forces.
What steps are being taken by the coalition forces in Iraq, in conjunction with the Iraq Government, to protect Iraqi citizens seeking to be recruited to the country’s security forces.
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Lord Drayson
(Labour)
Oral questions - Lead
Status
Answered
For answer on
26 October 2005
Answered on
26 October 2005
My Lords, as my predecessor told the noble Lord, Lord Redesdale, I cannot go into the details of this for obvious reasons, but practical measures include physical protection; detailed briefs to the Iraqi security force on prevalent threats; advice on force protection for training centres and police stations; the provision of body armour and helmets as part of the overall equipment programme; and enhanced operational security. We continue to provide this support to the Iraqi security forces, and look forward to the day when they can take full responsibility for the security of a stable, democratic Iraq.
Subjects
Iraq; Protection; Police; Recruitment; Peacekeeping operations; Security
Date
26 October 2005
Reference
674 c1162
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, I am sure that the whole House will be pleased about the three Chinooks being sent over the weekend and, in particular, I congratulate DfID on the active part that it has played. However, it took 11 days to make the decision to send the Chinooks—11 days in which literally hundreds of people who might have been saved died in Pakistan. If we believe in the battle for hearts and minds, what more effective way is there to win that battle than to show the Muslim community throughout the world that we care profoundly about those who suffer who are Muslim as well as those who are not?
My Lords, I am sure that the whole House will be pleased about the three Chinooks being sent over the weekend and, in particular, I congratulate DfID on the active part that it has played. However, it took 11 days to make the decision to send the Chinooks—11 days in which literally hundreds of people who might have been saved died in Pakistan. If we believe in the battle for hearts and minds, what more effective way is there to win that battle than to show the Muslim community throughout the world that we care profoundly about those who suffer who are Muslim as well as those who are not?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - 1st Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
25 October 2005
My Lords, the noble Baroness is absolutely right to say that speed is of the essence in this matter. We should recognise that the United Kingdom responded extremely quickly, for example in the provision of a number of helicopters before the MoD Chinooks. In terms of the work that DfID has done, over £18 million has already been committed out of the £33 million that has been set aside, including a whole range of support, such as tents, global positioning systems and the UK search and rescue team, which has already made a dramatic impact on the ground. However, we must also recognise that taking something as complex as a Chinook helicopter into the terrain in which the disaster has taken place is no small task. The way in which the Ministry of Defence has been able to respond in deploying the helicopters—they are now deployed—is something on which it is to be congratulated. It takes time to do that, and it has been done in response to the need that has been described, as the situation has evolved on the ground.
Subjects
Deployment; Disaster relief; Helicopters; Pakistan; Earthquakes; Kashmir; Military aid; Iraq; Peacekeeping operations; Military aircraft; USA; Afghanistan
Date
25 October 2005
Reference
674 c1067
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
Whether some of the helicopters deployed by the United Kingdom and the United States in Afghanistan and Iraq can be redeployed for a brief period to Kashmir, to move tents, blankets and food to homeless people before the onset of the Himalayan winter.
Whether some of the helicopters deployed by the United Kingdom and the United States in Afghanistan and Iraq can be redeployed for a brief period to Kashmir, to move tents, blankets and food to homeless people before the onset of the Himalayan winter.
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Lord Drayson
(Labour)
Oral questions - Lead
Status
Answered
Procedure
Topical questions (HL)
For answer on
25 October 2005
Answered on
25 October 2005
My Lords, I can confirm that, in addition to C130 assets that are already committed, the MoD is deploying three heavy-lift Chinook helicopters, with accompanying personnel, in support of the Pakistan relief effort. There are no UK military helicopters deployed in Afghanistan, and those that are operating in Iraq are fully committed to ongoing operations, which include the current roulement of UK troops and various security tasks. The deployment of US assets is entirely a matter for the US Administration.
Subjects
Deployment; Disaster relief; Iraq; Helicopters; Peacekeeping operations; Pakistan; Military aircraft; USA; Afghanistan; Earthquakes; Kashmir; Military aid
Date
25 October 2005
Reference
674 c1066-7
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
My Lords, does not the Minister consider his original reply to be a shade complacent, given that only two days ago one of the most senior figures in the United States army said that only one battalion of the Iraqi army was capable of handling the insurgency without the support of coalition forces? In view of the terrible level of casualties among those seeking recruitment in particular to the police force, who are obviously targeted by suicide bombers, precisely what steps are being taken to protect those young men and women so that their lives are regarded as valuable, regardless of the fact that they are lining up to be recruited?
My Lords, does not the Minister consider his original reply to be a shade complacent, given that only two days ago one of the most senior figures in the United States army said that only one battalion of the Iraqi army was capable of handling the insurgency without the support of coalition forces? In view of the terrible level of casualties among those seeking recruitment in particular to the police force, who are obviously targeted by suicide bombers, precisely what steps are being taken to protect those young men and women so that their lives are regarded as valuable, regardless of the fact that they are lining up to be recruited?
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Oral questions - Supplementary
Status
Answered
Answered on
10 October 2005
My Lords, we are not complacent. I do not want to present a glowing picture but neither do I believe that people should be over-pessimistic. Progress is being made. We recognise that the security situation is challenging, but we can expect that as the political process goes forward. We have the vote on the referendum this Saturday. The enemy we are up against is looking to undermine the support that we are giving to the Iraqis as they move forward towards democracy. The support that we are giving is working; we can see evidence of that. We are not complacent. I mentioned the incident on 19 September when the ability of our forces to deal admirably with that situation was shown. They showed the ability to rescue two servicemen without firing a shot. That is to their real credit and underlines the progress that we are making.
Subjects
Iraq; Police; Training; Security
Date
10 October 2005
Reference
674 c3
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
In light of recent reports by Iraq Revenue Watch, when full accounts will be published showing revenues, allocation and spending from the Development Fund for Iraq; and in particular whether they will request the United States administration to comply with International Advisory and Monitoring Board requests for information about payments...
In light of recent reports by Iraq Revenue Watch, when full accounts will be published showing revenues, allocation and spending from the Development Fund for Iraq; and in particular whether they will request the United States administration to comply with International Advisory and Monitoring Board requests for information about payments...
Asked by
Baroness Williams of Crosby
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Baroness Amos
(Labour)
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
For answer on
7 September 2004
Answered on
7 September 2004
Subjects
Disclosure of information; Contracts; Audit; Accountancy; Finance; Expenditure; Iraq; USA; Halliburton; Development Fund for Iraq; International Advisory and Monitoring Board
Date
7 September 2004
Reference
HL 4013; 664 c109WA
House
House of Lords