To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he has any information about the involvement of the Salman Pak underground plant, 35 miles from Baghdad, in work related to chemical and biological weapons.

Iraq has used chemical weapons on a number of occasions in the past, indicating that it has a production capability. We are aware of recent media reports concerning the Salman Pak facility. It is not our practice, however, to comment on information which may be available to us on such matters.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he has any information regarding the possession by Iraq of the anti-personnel biological agents tularemia, anthrax and equine encephalitis; whether these agents have been weaponised; and what discussions have been held with the United States administration on these matters.

We are aware of recent media reports alleging Iraqi development of biological weapons. Iraq has signed but not ratified the 1972 biological weapons convention which prohibits such weapons. It is not our practice, however, to comment on information which may be available to us on such matters. We have regular consultations with the United States on a full range of issues including chemical and biological weapons.