TELEVISION transmitters in Iraq will be a first military target. Bush will want to ensure that we hear talk of 'smart' bombs and limited 'collateral' damage, not see pictures of innocent people being mutilated by our weapons. It may be years before we get to know the full story.

Truth is always a casualty of war and already it has been twisted mercilessly. Twelve months ago I recall discussing Iraq, but the issue for MEPs then was whether we should lift economic sanctions to ease the plight of the Iraqi people. There was no talk of weapons of mass destruction because Iraq was not regarded as a credible threat.

This war has been conjured up to serve the political interests of President Bush. Given the overwhelming strength of the US military it should quickly result in the 'victory' he seeks. I will shed no tears for Saddam Hussein, but I fear the long term repercussions of this pre-emptive attack upon an independent nation, contrary to the wishes of the United Nations Security Council.

CHRIS DAVIES, Liberal Democrat MEP for the North West.