PRIVATE IRAQ INQUIRY A “DISAPPOINTING RESPONSE TO A CATASTROPHIC FOREIGN POLICY DECISION” – MENZIES CAMPBELL

Sir Menzies Campbell MP has called the Prime Minister’s announcement that the independent inquiry into the Iraq war will be held in private a “disappointing response to a catastrophic foreign policy decision”.

Speaking in the chamber of the House of Commons this afternoon (Monday), Sir Menzies questioned the Prime Minister.

He said:

“I profoundly regret the nature of the inquiry he has announced. It is a disappointing response to a catastrophic foreign policy decision.

“Can the Prime Minister confirm whether witnesses will be compelled to attend the inquiry and if the will be under oath when giving evidence?

“Finally, may I ask if the millions of people who marched against the war can be satisfied by the inquiry given that it will meet in private, even when the natural interest does not require it?”

Speaking afterwards Sir Menzies said:

“The Prime Minister was unable to answer any question about witnesses being put under oath. The Government clearly wants this inquiry to be as much below the radar before the next general election as it can manage.”

ENDS