Asking why the Brits were there is a non issue. They were and are there at the behest of both the UN and Iraq. Thinking they provoked the issue is not good thinking because it overlooks what Iran has done. The over reaction by Iranian forces is for their agenda, not Britain's. People inside the Iraq administration have said that the event was pre-planned and had been for a while. However, I'd guiess that if Bush can shut his fucking mouth, the prisoners/unwilling guests/hostages will be returned within a week. Talks seem to be moving apace.