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Dem inzer,
I undertook to write to colleagues setting out the arrangements for looking after civilian personnel in Iraq. In doing so, I am also covering areas which are Michael Jay's responsibility; this has accordingly been agreed with the FCO.
There are two categories of HMG civilian employees in Iraq: MOD civilians deployed as part of the military operation; and other staff either seconded to the CPA or deployed directly by other departments, including contractors, but who all come under the wing of IraqRep.
¿ In the case of the first category, the 70-80 MOD Civil Servants deployed at any one time,direct support of Operation TELIC effectively enjoy the same protection as the military, alongside whom they live and work. They would be unlikely to have to leave, but if they were, the arrangements would be made through the Permanent Joint Headquarters which is part of their reporting chain and also 'owns' the military transport assets. This would be fairly straightforward given the numbers involved.
Of the IraqRep staff (including civil servants and contractors) there are about 120 each in Baghdad and Basra and 20 or so in smaller locations. Most are based in secure locations which are currently protected by coalition Armed Forces. Protection whilst on the move is normally provided by private contractors. The security guidelines for these staff is constantly under review, based upon risk assessment done by full time FCO security managers in Baghdad and Basra. Staff understand that they remain volunteers and are aware that they may return to the UK if not comfortable with the security arrangements.
In the event that HMG civilians had to be withdrawn from the south, the UK Armed Forces would assist with the evacuation of UK staff, through Basrah Airport, by road to Kuwait, or by sea, depending upon the operational circumstances. Those in Baghdad would be assisted to leave through the airport. In the outlying areas the US military would assist.
Detailed contingency plans are being drawn up.
DECLASSIFIED
See Dilab
quick reaction force able to respond in emergencies.
The existence of contingency plans in the event that we need to move our people quickly is a matter of prudent planning: the security situation in Iraq is tense, but no worse in most places than it has been previously. The situation in Baghdad is kept under review, as are the security arrangements to ensure that we are in a position to deal with the consequences of any deterioration.
Ministers will be presented with a short paper on the subject at Thursday's Ad Hoc Ministerial on Iraq.
I am copying this to Wednesday morning colleagues.
Sir Andrew Turnbull KCB CVO Secretary of the Cabinet and Head of the Home Civil Service Cabinet Office 70 Whitehall London SW1A 2AS DECLASSIFIED