Independent probe of Iraq oil-for-food programme

Secretary-General Kofi Annan has proposed an independent investigation of alleged corruption in the UN oil-for-food programme for Iraq following allegations that UN staff may have reaped millions of dollars from the programme that helped Iraqis cope with international sanctions.

In a letter to the Security Council outlining his proposal, Annan said that for the investigation to be “thorough and effective,” it would need the council’s support and the “active co-operation” of member states.