Westminster File

12.00.00am GMT Sat 1st Mar 2003

Annette Brooke

I am writing this article the morning after the historic vote in the House of Commons on the war in Iraq. I praise the Government for allowing the full debate and the vote before troops were actively engaged in military conflict. This, I believe, will set an important precedent for the future.

However, as somebody who did not think that the case for war was justified at this point in time, I voted for the amendment and against the Government. Once the votes were counted, my support moved solidly behind our forces deployed in Iraq. I am sure that we will all be praying that the action will be short and effective and that the impact on lives will be minimised. Perhaps by the time this article is published the war will be over. My great fears are that there will be many more problems generated in other countries and indeed within Iraq.

It will be vital that humanitarian aid is quickly available and in sufficient quantities. A week ago I attended a meeting with Christian Aid and Save the Children and there were profound concerns about the lack of preparedness and difficulties ahead in delivering an aid programme. Also, the longer term commitments from America regarding post war reconstruction must be met. Constituents have contacted me concerned that contracts will possibly only be issued to American companies. Out of the crisis has come a commitment from President Bush and Tony Blair to address the Israel/Palestine situation. Many of my constituents have been pointing out that there are many UN resolutions which have not been implemented relating to these countries. I believe the United Nations is a very important institution and clearly it has been damaged.