Overview

This bill mandates a formal inquiry into the UK's involvement in the 2003 Iraq War. The inquiry will investigate the war's origins, initiation, legality, and conduct, and its findings will be presented to Parliament.

Description

The Iraq War Inquiry Bill compels the Secretary of State to establish an inquiry under the Inquiries Act 2005. This inquiry, officially titled the "Iraq War Inquiry," will examine four key aspects of the UK's participation in the war:

• Origins: The underlying causes and motivations behind the decision to go to war.
• Inception: The process of decision-making leading to military action.
• Legality: The legal basis and justification for the UK's involvement.
• Subsequent Conduct: The actions and decisions taken during the course of the war.

The inquiry must begin as soon as feasible, but no later than the start of the parliamentary session following the bill's passage. A comprehensive report, excluding only one specific subsection from standard publication requirements under the 2005 act, is due within a year of the inquiry's commencement. The chairman also has the authority to issue interim reports.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify a budget. The cost of the inquiry will depend on its scope and duration, involving expenses for investigators, witnesses, legal counsel, and report publication. No specific figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

The bill may impact various groups, including:

• Government officials: Those involved in decision-making related to the Iraq War may be required to testify and provide evidence.
• Military personnel: Their actions and experiences during the war may be examined.
• Civilians in Iraq: The impact of the war on the Iraqi population will likely be a significant aspect of the inquiry.
• The British public: The inquiry's findings will shape public understanding of the war and its consequences.

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