Security Council still divided on Iraq

THE five permanent members of the UN Security Council remain divided on Iraq, despite US President George Bush’s call for a quick resolution.

Bush has said the United Nations must authorise the use of force if Saddam Hussein fails to comply with its weapons inspectors.

The permanent members met last night, with the US and Britain demanding a green light to attack if Baghdad blocks inspections again, and France, Russia and China insisting Saddam should be allowed to cooperate.