Jack Straw message to LFIQ meeting with Iraqi women trade unionists

LFIQ hosted a meeting at the Commons with a visiting delegation of Iraqi women trade unionists. It was Chaired by Dave Anderson MP with a contribution from Ann Clwyd, LFIQ Joint President and the Prime Minister’s Envoy to Iraq on Human Rights. More reports of the discussion will follow but in the meantime here is the solidarity message sent by the Foreign Secretary.

Gary Kent
Director LFIQ

I am sorry that I cannot attend your meeting this evening.

I wanted though to send you my very best wishes. I know from my regular visits to Iraq of the vital role people such as yourselves are playing in building a new future for the country. You can be assured that in your historic mission you have the support of the UK Government.

I do not delude myself about the challenges faced by the people of Iraq. But just as millions of people showed what sort of future they want by voting in December's elections, so the trade union movement in Iraq is showing its determination to defy those who seek to destroy the process of rebuilding your country. In that we offer you solidarity and wish you well.