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These figures do not constitute part of national statistics as they are based on internal management information. The information has not been quality assured under National Statistics protocols and should be treated as provisional and subject to change.
Iraq
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they are making to the relevant authorities concerning persons detained without trial in Iraq by the Government of Iraq and United States forces; and whether timetables have been established for reviewing and releasing all detainees. [HL858]
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The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Malloch-Brown): The Government of Iraq took a significant step in 2008 to address the slow processing of cases by implementing the Iraqi Amnesty Law which has since helped enable around 12,700 releases. Iraqi security operations throughout 2008 meant an understandable increase in numbers held and it is estimated that approx 26,000 remain in Iraqi detention awaiting processing or trial.
The Ministry of Justice has pledged to make detention centres more efficient by speeding up paperwork, introducing rehabilitation and vocational training and addressing overcrowding. Arrangements for US-held detainees are covered separately under the Iraqi/US Status of Forces Agreement under which the relevant Iraqi authorities may request assistance from the US forces in detaining or arresting wanted individuals. There are currently around 15,000 in US detention but it is expected that the number of US-held detainees should be reduced under this agreement.
The Government recognise that the current levels of detainees needs to be greatly reduced and we will continue to closely monitor the situation, making representations as necessary. We shall also continue to assist the Iraqi authorities where possible to implement effectively the amnesty law and required judicial processes.
Israel and Palestine: Gaza
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will bring to the attention of the Government of Israel comments made by leading members of the Jewish community in the United Kingdom about the military action in Gaza. [HL777]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Malloch-Brown): In our discussions with the Israeli Government and others, we will continue to make clear the Government's position. In line with UN Security Council Resolution 1860, we are pressing to ensure the ceasefire in Gaza is durable.
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will work with the United Nations to establish a multinational inquiry into alleged war crimes committed in Gaza. [HL842]
Lord Malloch-Brown: As my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary said on 19 January 2009, Official Report, Col. 501: “allegations must be closely and speedily investigated. Obviously, the three key parties to that investigation are the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the government of Israel, and we are in touch with all of them”.
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will propose the prosecution before the International Criminal Court of Israelis who may have committed war crimes in Lebanon in 2006 and subsequently in Gaza and the West Bank. [HL774]
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Lord Malloch-Brown: As my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary said on 19 January 2009, Official Report, Col. 501: “allegations must be closely and speedily investigated. Obviously, the three key parties to that investigation are the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the government of Israel, and we are in touch with all of them”.
Legal Profession
Question
Asked by Lord Stoddart of Swindon
To ask Her Majesty's Government what were the proportions of men and women entering the legal profession in the United Kingdom in each of the years 2003—07. [HL907]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord Bach): The information in the table below sets out the number and percentage of men and women entering the legal profession in 2003-07 (where
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A more detailed breakdown of the figures received is also provided below.
| Solicitors and Barristers Figures in the UK | ||||||
| Year | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | Total |
Libya
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