KEETCH CHALLENGES FOREIGN SECRETARY ON PRIVATE SECURITY COMPANIES

11.00.05am GMT Fri 17th Mar 2006

Paul Keetch MP talking with British troops and private security official on a recent visit to Iraq

Paul Keetch, MP for Hereford and Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, this week questioned the Foreign Secretary, Jack Straw MP, over the increasingly precarious role of Private Security Companies (PSCs) in war torn countries like Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mr Keetch has a known interest in this issue, with many of his constituents in Herefordshire working in the private security industry. Some have spoken with him about their concerns on their exact role abroad. The Foreign Secretary thanked Paul Keetch for his comments and said he will look closely into this issue.

Commenting on the meeting, Mr Keetch said:

"I am pleased the Foreign Secretary has taken this issue seriously. Many of my constituents who work for private security companies have told me on occasions that there is a critical need for clarification from the Government on their exact role and status abroad. For example, if they are in an untenable situation, are they subject to investigation by foreign judicial systems or do they enjoy immunity in certain circumstance - these issues need addressing.

"The Foreign Secretary agreed that legislation has not been forthcoming on this issue and said that he will consult Foreign Office business managers on the possibility of introducing a White Paper to define the status of PSCs."