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![image: [ Butler (right) wants unimpeded access for UN weapons inspectors ]](/olmedia/images/_39859_butler300.JPG)
He was speaking after two days of talks in Baghdad with the Deputy Prime Minister, Tariq Aziz.
Mr Butler had been trying to resolve a dispute on the core issue of access for international weapons teams to any sites or buildings they felt might be linked to a programme for weapons of mass destruction.
But he said the Iraqis had, in effect, refused to discuss the question of access for international inspection teams to presidential palaces and compounds.
"Iraq has said that will not occur. That is the question the Security Council will have to consider, whether it is prepared that or not, " said Mr Butler.
The Iraqis have been refusing to allow weapons monitors to enter or search presidential palaces, arguing this would infringe the country's sovereignty.
Iraq's Trade Minister, Mohammed Mehdi Saleh, told the BBC he was not optimistic about the chances of an early end to the dispute.
He said sanctions were being maintained by the United States and Britain to encourage Iraqis to overthrow their government.
Arguments over access provoked a crisis six weeks ago, during which the UN withdrew virtually all its inspectors and President Clinton ordered extra US forces to the Gulf in readiness for possible military action.
After diplomatic intervention by Russia, Iraq agreed to allow the Americans back in.
There have been regular disputes between Iraq and weapons inspectors in recent years, and the UN has often complained about being denied access to certain sites.
The UN's Mandate
(14 Nov 97 | Special Report)
Iraq - a history of conflict
(12 Nov 97 | Special Report)
Iraq's weapons of mass destruction
(26 Nov 97 | Special Report)
UN and Iraq locked in palaces dispute
(13 Dec 97 | World)
UN envoy arrives in Iraq for uncomfortable visit
(11 Dec 97 | Despatches)
US and Iraq on fresh collision course
(28 Nov 97 | World)
Who's got what in the Gulf
(18 Nov 97 | World)
Years of tension: 1992-96
(17 Nov 97 | Special Report)
United Nations
Iraq Net
Iraq Foundation
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