unable to fulfill their proper functions as a result of Iraq's illegal tion in occupying Kuwait. It had been decided that they should be given new assignments in Baghdad. The Iraqi authorities had been notified by our Ambassador of their appointment as members of our diplomatic staff but we were informed on 12 October that Iraq could not accept them as members of the Diplomatic Corps, and considered them for the duration of their stay in Iraq simply as ordinary British citizens (whom the Iraqis have refused to allow to leave).
Spokesman said that this incident was a further example of Iraq's flagrant disregard for international law. Article 40 of the Vienna Convention required Iraq to accord diplomats passing through or in their territory inviolability and other such immunities as may be required to ensure their transit or return. Under Article 44 the Iraqis were required, even in the case of armed conflict, to grant facilities to enable persons enjoying privileges and immunities to leave at the earliest possible moment. In neither case had they fulfilled their obligations.
Visas for British women wishing to return to Iraq
In response to questions Spokesman confirmed that our advice to British citizens considering the Iraqi offer of visas to allow them to return to Iraq in order to visit relatives detained there was that they should not travel to Iraq or Kuwait. He said that this offer was cynical manipulation of innocent people. It remained the case that all foreign nationals should be free to leave Iraq and Kuwait. Spokesman added that anyone who decided to travel despite this advice should inform us of their plans.
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