Fed: Aust ambassador says Saddam still hasn't got the message=2

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Fed: Aust ambassador says Saddam still hasn't got the message=2

Mr Dauth said Resolution 1441 set two objective criteria for compliance - provisionby Iraq of a full and complete declaration of its weapons of mass destruction and unconditionalcooperation with weapons inspectors.

"More than three months later by any objective reading of those criteria, Iraq hasfailed to meet its obligations," he said in his seven-minute speech.

Mr Dauth said Iraq's declaration, delivered to the UN on December 7, was patently incomplete.

He said it provided no new information on weapons programs and failed to answer outstandingquestions about production of anthrax, VX nerve gas and mustard gas.

Mr Dauth said US Secretary of State Colin Powell presented further evidence on February5, indicating Iraq was actually trying to subvert the inspections process.

He said Australia found the intelligence presented by Mr Powell, which included satellitephotos and communications intercepts, to be compelling.

"If some believe this information was open to interpretation, that is their right," he said.

"But from what we know of Saddam's record of deception, I am not sure we should begiving him the benefit of the doubt."

Mr Dauth said further delays and divisions in the Security Council would only playinto Iraq's hands.

"We cannot allow a tyrant to evade Council decisions," he said.

"The Security Council must stand united - but united around what is fundamental, noton distractions.

"The Security Council must act decisively to ensure that after 12 years Iraq finallymeets its obligations."

AAP mb/sb/dl/br

KEYWORD: IRAQ AUST 3RD D/L CANBERRA (REOPENS)