Feargal Quinn (Independent)

It is understandable that we are distracted by the Freedom of Information (Amendment) Bill 2003 and the report of the Information Commissioner and I support the comments made in that context on this side of the House. However, let us not forget yesterday's inauguration of the International Criminal Court in the Hague. We passed a referendum two years ago to sign our participation with that court into law. At a time when we seem to be getting ever closer to war, we should plead for the rule of law in international affairs to be upheld. The people took the establishment of the International Criminal Court to heart and passed it into legislation by way of a referendum. Other countries have not yet done so and others have still not accepted it. As we approach war, let us ensure that the House does not turn its eye away from this matter.