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UK admits concern about investigation of Iraqi deaths

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

London, Jan 30, IRNA - Britain`s Defence Ministry has admitted it 
has received complaints about the adequacy of investigations into 
Iraqi deaths resulting from UK military action. 
"We have received a number of letters from members of the public 
and enquiries from the media some of which have expressed concern 
about investigations into Iraqi deaths allegedly caused by United 
Kingdom forces," Armed Forces Minister Adam Ingram said. 
"The most common concerns expressed have been about the speed 
with which investigations are carried out, their independence and 
whether their results would be made public," he told MPs in a written 
reply to parliament published Friday. 
Ingram said that in responding, the ministry made clear that 
investigations are "thorough" and can take time." They were carried 
out by the Royal Military Police and, if called on, the single- 
service Prosecuting Authorities, which were "fully independent." 
With regard to their secrecy, he said that while the findings of 
investigations are subject to legal, operational and other security 
constraints, there "may be some circumstances in which we are able to 
release certain details to entitled persons." 
Last week, the Armed Forces Minister revealed that out of a total 
of 23 claims for Iraqi civilian casualties that allegedly involved UK 
forces, only three had been accepted, while seven had been rejected 
and 13 were still under investigation. 
He further disclosed that the average compensation paid for the 
three deaths was Pnds 2,700 (Dlrs 4,800), less than half of the 
average amount paid for claims for property damage. 
HC/214 
End