20/01/2010

PM Will Face Iraq Inquiry 'Any Time'

Gordon Brown today insisted he is 'happy' to appear before the Iraq inquiry prior to the General Election.

The Prime minister has written to the panel, chaired by Sir John Chilcot, to assure them he would appear "at any time".

Mr Brown had faced criticism from opponents who claimed he was unwilling to give evidence to the inquiry in the run up to the General Election.

He told MPs in the Commons a letter had been sent to Sir John, but ultimately it was the chairman's decision when he is called for evidence.

"That is a matter for the committee to decide, but I will take whatever advice he gives me about when he wishes me to appear," he added.

Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg called for the PM, who was chancellor at the time of the war, to appear earlier.

SNP MP Angus Robertson had asked the PM to confirm there was "no impediment" to a pre-election appearance.

Ex-defence minister Geoff Hoon appeared before the inquiry members yesterday, and raised questions about spending decisions taken by Mr Brown in the lead up to the Iraq invasion.

(PR/BMcC)

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