Attacks On Un And International Aid Agencies In Iraqi Kurdistan

EDM number 420 in 1992-93, proposed by DN Campbell-Savours on 03/07/1992.

That this House notes with grave concern the vulnerability of international humanitarian operations in Iraqi Kurdistan; notes that the Government of Iraq's internal blockade against Kurdistan has now been in place for over ten months in contravention of United Nations Security Council Resolution 688, that demands the end to repression in Iraq; further notes that the Memorandum of Understanding between the United Nations and Baghdad expired on 30th June 1992 and that, due to the stalling of negotiations on renewal, by Saddam Hussein, several humanitarian agencies have been forced to curtail vital operations; regrets that the United Nations co-ordinating unit has not yet been established in Kurdistan, resulting in a dangerous lack of programme co-ordination; is deeply concerned by United Nations and British aid agency reports that international aid agency staff have been threatened by Iraqi security forces and that United Nations staff and property have come under grenade attack in Arbil and Sulaymaniyah; understands that threats by Iraqi security forces have necessitated Save the Children Fund having to arrange protection for its staff because the United Nations guards contingent is reportedly unable to undertake such services; and calls upon honourable Members to attend the opening of the Kurdistan exhibition in the Upper Waiting Hall of the Commons at 1 p.m. Tuesday 7th July 1992, to obtain further information.

This motion has been signed by a total of 40 MPs.