Iraq should still hold general elections as planned at the end of this month despite protests, French Foreign Minister Michel Barnier said on Friday. Speaking to French LCI television, Barnier said the vote "must take place" as it is important to the country's political reconstruction. Fears have been raised that the poll may be postponed due to security concerns. But the US-backed Iraqi interim government said it will stick to the 30 January timetable. (Iraq Procurement)