[MadIvan]

What did France know and when did they know it? And why are they afraid of the rest of the world being given this evidence?

Because the French have historically been one of Iraq's biggest trading partners. Were I in Blair's shoes, I would use this information as a boot on Chirac's neck to get him to behave.

Regards, Ivan

[Shermy]

Absolutely Ivan. Chirac is saying it's dangerous for the public to know, because it would upset the status quo - which profits France.

I sure hope GWB has it arranged for some Russian troops to participate. It will be nice to see them to set up in areas of French energy leases - let's see the French get them out!

[Stultis]

Because the French have historically been one of Iraq's biggest trading partners.

And (I am given to understand) much less punctilious than most developed world countries about ensuring that their corporations do not violate sanctions, pay bribes to receive contracts, etc. I bet you're right. There is probably some merde-stained linen the frogs don't want aired.

[KC_Conspirator]

You are exactly right about that MadIvan. The Frogs have their hands all over the trade with Iraq and I would go as far to say that some of the materials they are exporting over there will eventually be found out to be highly suspect.

[cardinal4]

Ive heard Blair compared to Klintoon the rapist, but he is showing more guts than the traitor ever did. If the toon were still in power he'd lob a couple of cruise missiles and forget about it, moving on to more important issues like giving away American jobs through NAFTA, and technology to China through Loral. From what I can see, the toon doesnt compare to Blair.

[Swanks]

The best description of the French is perhaps the shortest one:

The French plant trees, so the Germans could march in the shade.