Iraq Elections 'Best Way to Undercut Terrorism'

Report by Jamie Lyons in the Scotsman on 29th November

Elections could be the only way of undercutting terrorism in Iraq, Prime Minister Tony Blair’s special envoy on human rights to the country said today.

Labour MP Ann Clwyd said it would be a mistake to delay January’s planned polls despite ongoing violence.

“There is a conundrum,” she said.

“Without security there can’t be credible elections. But, until there are elections, I think the security situation is unlikely to improve.”

Speaking on the BBC Radio 4 Today programme, Ms Clwyd (Cynon Valley) added: “I think the latter argument has been more compelling.

“I think elections in January are the best, and possibly only, way of undercutting support for the terrorists and thereby of improving the security situation in the longer term.”

Ms Clwyd said a large number of Iraqis planned to vote.

The backbencher has consistently argued against the death penalty in Iraq. But she said opinions were now hardening in favour of it.

She said Saddam Hussein had freed murderers and rapists and there was a real fear among Iraqis that he could be “wandering around the streets” in 20 years.