unjust detention of scientists at the Baghdad jail? Many, he said, have spent more than 18 months in solitary confinement.

The Observer | International | UN inspector paints bleak picture of Saddam's jail: "Antony Barnett | Sunday May 22, 2005 | The Observer
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Barton, who gave an exclusive interview to The Observer, decided to speak out to highlight what he believes is the unjust detention of scientists at the Baghdad jail.

Barton's testimony offers a remarkable insight into the conditions the former dictator and his most loyal lieutenants are being kept in.

He said there were about 100 prisoners kept at the 'bleak' prison, which consists of three rows of single-story buildings with tiny two-metre square cells and no windows. The cells have steel doors with a metal flap a metre from the ground.

He said: 'Sometimes the prisoners would push the flap open to look out into the exercise yard or to get fresh air. The guards could lock the flap as punishment. Exercise was permitted on a rotation basis for half-hour a day though this was increased to an hour after the Red Cross protested in January 2004. Other prisoners shared larger accommodation sleeping on camp stretchers. Many, he said, have spent more than 18 months in solitary confinement. ...