8 November 2004
Security around the world would be damaged if terrorists were victorious in Iraq, the Prime Minister told MPs today.
Updating Parliament on last week’s European Council meeting and the current situation in Iraq, Mr Blair said that Britain would hold firm, be resolute and see the job through.
"Defeat of terrorism in Iraq is defeat for this new and virulent form of global terrorism everywhere."
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the British soldiers who died in Iraq last week, and the troops injured in a terrorist attack yesterday. He said:
"We salute their dedication, professionalism and above all, sheer and undaunted courage. They are an example to us all and we can and should be very proud of them."
He said that the whole Council agreed that it was in the interests of global security for Iraqi elections to take place.
The Council agreed a comprehensive package of European Union assistance for Iraq. This includes a further programme of financial and logistical support for the January elections, and funding for the United Nations Protection Force.
Mr Blair added that the Council agreed that a close trans-Atlantic partnership was fundamental to building international peace, security and prosperity.
The Prime Minister said:
"In summary the meeting once again underlined the importance to Britain of maintaining both a strong relationship with the USA and a strong place in the Councils of the EU.
"Both partnerships are vital to the British national interest and it will remain the policy, of this Government at least, to nurture both."
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